Dear Readers! D.E.A.R. Texas Day is nearly upon us. It’s set to become the Biggest Statewide Book Festival in Texas. What will you be reading on April 12? 
I invite you to drop by the Lincoln Square Half-Price Books in Arlington, Texas, where I’ll be selling and signing complete sets of the Waterspell fantasy trilogy. My award-winning novels are good choices for readers who enjoy epic fantasy or dystopian YA.
What Is D.E.A.R.?
D.E.A.R. stands for “Drop Everything and Read,” a national celebration of reading designed to remind folks of all ages to make reading a priority in their lives. Because, what’s more fun(damental) than reading, really?
When Is D.E.A.R. Celebrated?
D.E.A.R. programs have been held nationwide on April 12th in honor of Beverly Cleary’s birthday, since she first wrote about D.E.A.R. in Ramona Quimby, Age 8 (pages 40-41). Inspired by letters from readers sharing their enthusiasm for the D.E.A.R. activities implemented in their schools, Mrs. Cleary decided to give the same experience to Ramona and her classmates. As D.E.A.R. has grown in popularity and scope, the program has expanded to span the entire month of April … offering classrooms and communities additional time to celebrate!
Can D.E.A.R. Be Celebrated Anytime?
Yes, of course! We encourage you to “Drop Everything and Read!” every day throughout the year. The goal of the program is to prompt people to make reading a regular part of their routine … whether they’re reading solo or together with their classmates, parents, or friends. So, go ahead and join the millions of families, schools, bookstores, and communities who have participated throughout the years and pledge to “drop” what you’re doing in order to read a good book.
