International Children's Book Day is an annual celebration that honors the enchanting world of children's literature. Established in 1967 by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), this global event aims to inspire a love for reading and highlight the importance of books in young people's lives. International Children's Book Day is observed on April 2nd each year, coinciding with the birthday of renowned Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.
The Global Importance of International Children's Book Day
Each year, a different country sponsors International Children's Book Day. A prominent children's author from the chosen nation crafts a message to inspire young readers worldwide. This approach promotes cultural exchange and highlights the universal appeal of children's literature. This year’s host nation is the Netherlands. The International Children's Book Day theme for 2025 is The Freedom of Imagination, and the motto is the last sentence of the poem, The Language of Pictures: “Make pictures for my poem, and please feel free: these words belong to you even though they came from me.”
How to Celebrate International Children's Book Day
- Bring your children to a nearby branch of SJPL to attend storytime.
- While you're here, pick up some books to take home. Don’t have a library card? Fill out an application online and pick one up when you visit. If your library card is expired or lost, you can renew it or request a free replacement card at our customer service desk.
- Honor the work of Hans Christian Andersen and read some of his tales. These stories, rich with moral lessons and imaginative elements, continue to inspire readers and creators worldwide through books, films, ballets, and other artistic adaptations.
The Little Mermaid: A poignant tale of a mermaid who sacrifices her life in the sea for love and a human soul. This story has inspired countless adaptations, including Disney's famous animated film.
The Ugly Duckling: A touching story about transformation and self-discovery, where an ostracized "duckling" grows into a beautiful swan. It is often seen as a reflection of Andersen's own life experiences.
The Emperor's New Clothes: A witty tale about vanity and truth, where a child exposes the folly of an emperor who parades in "invisible" clothes.
The Snow Queen: A complex narrative following Gerda's journey to rescue her friend Kay from the icy clutches of the Snow Queen. This story explores themes of love, courage, and redemption.
Thumbelina: The adventures of a tiny girl navigating a world of larger creatures, ultimately finding love with a flower-fairy prince.
The Princess and the Pea: A short and whimsical tale about a princess whose sensitivity to a hidden pea proves her royal lineage.
The Steadfast Tin Soldier: The tale of a one-legged toy soldier's unwavering love for a paper ballerina amidst trials and adventures.
Join the Celebration!
International Children's Book Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's an opportunity to celebrate the transformative power of literature. Whether you're a parent, educator, or book enthusiast, take this day to share the magic of reading with the children in your life. After all, a good story is all you need to embark on an unforgettable adventure.
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