African American Read-In, Ypsilanti, MI
Since 1989, The African American Read-In has introduced the writings of African-Americans to over a million children. In Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti, Michigan alone, nearly 3000 children have attended readings by speakers such as storyteller LaRon Williams, former editor the Crisis Magazine Denise Crittendon, and International Reading Association award-winning author of "Mama Got Rhythm and Daddy Got Rhyme," Robin Morris.
Over 6000 free books have been given out to attendees, including Hill Harper's "Letters to Young Sisters," Maya Angelou's "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," and Carole Boston Weatherford's "Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom."
Sunday, February 10th, the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Community African-American Read-In returns with the theme of "Readers are Heroes: Comic Books and Graphic Novels." Using the tales of superheroes like "Dreadlocks" who fights for Ma'at"”universal order, justice, and righteousness we will celebrate literacy with over 50 children and their families in the area.
We need your help. This program is funded solely by donations and sponsorship. We need books, games, writing supplies, refreshments, and honoraria for our speakers. Please help in any way you can. No amount is too small.
About the Coordinator:
The Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Community African-American Read In is coordinated by my mother, Pauline A. Bigby. She is a teacher, public schools administrator, and reading specialist. Having worked with students from grade 1 through graduate school, her passion is helping families encourage and develop reading with their children.
