Empowering Future Generations: Disney and Star Wars Reads
A collaborative effort to promote literacy in under-resourced communities
Throughout October, Disney and Lucasfilm Publishing are joining forces with nonprofits to celebrate the 13th annual Star Wars™ Reads month. This initiative aims to inspire young readers by bringing the joy of storytelling to under-resourced communities. Through this annual collaboration, organizations like First Book are working alongside Disney to promote educational equity by making reading materials accessible to children who need them the most.
This year’s Star Wars Reads activities will include book donations, classroom resources, and engaging activity kits for schools, all aimed at encouraging literacy and creativity. Disney VoluntEARS will participate in community events, helping children select their favorite Star Wars titles to take home, instilling a love of reading that opens the door to new worlds.
Michael Siglain, creative director at Lucasfilm Publishing, says, "Books, comics, and magazines offer an unparalleled way for readers of all ages to dive into the magic of a galaxy far, far away. Collaborating with organizations such as First Book and others allows us to share the joy of reading across generations."
Kickoff Events and Activities
This celebration will kick off with a specially hosted livestream event exclusive to First Book's extensive network, comprising over 600,000 educators and volunteers who serve students in underserved communities. Disney Publishing plans to donate nearly 60,000 books, fortifying schools and community events via partnerships with nonprofits within First Book's network. Children attending these events will have the chance to choose from various Star Wars titles, fostering their reading skills without any cost involved.
Upcoming events during this year’s Star Wars Reads festivities are both exciting and educational. Here are some noteworthy offerings:
Livestream Event
The livestream titled Read, You Will: A Brave Journey into the Galaxy will feature interactive classroom activities, as well as a virtual visit and discussions with popular Star Wars authors, including Charles Soule and his daughter, Rosemary Soule. Participants can look forward to a reading from their new picture book, Star Wars: The High Republic: Jedi Brave in Every Way, spurring discussions and creative thinking among attendees.
Community Events and Engagement
On October 26, educators and families are invited to participate in a Star Wars Reads Family Festival, hosted by New York Edge, a leader in providing free after-school programming. The festival will feature exciting activities for children and families alike.
Furthermore, a special celebration will be held later this year, where military families and children will gather at MacDill Air Force Base to enjoy a day filled with Star Wars Reads festivities organized by Blue Star Families, an organization committed to empowering military families.
"Books offer countless benefits to children, influencing their overall well-being and academic growth. Reading sparks the imagination, creating pathways to new worlds and nurturing creativity. Unfortunately, many children still lack essential resources to foster this love of reading,” stated Dana Bond, executive vice president of Strategic Alliances at First Book. "Disney's continued support makes a significant difference, enabling us to remove barriers to education not just during Star Wars Reads month, but all year long."
Continued Commitment to Education
For over two decades, Disney has actively supported First Book's mission by providing essential resources to educators and students from underserved backgrounds. Over the years, their collaboration has created opportunities that significantly impact the development of future generations.
This past season, Disney amplified its support through new grant funding, further assisting educators with purchasing books across the nation via the First Book Marketplace. These contributions, along with their established efforts, underline Disney's enduring commitment to promoting literacy, aided by both financial support and volunteer engagement.
About Disney Publishing
Disney Publishing is recognized as one of the largest publishing entities globally, inspiring imaginations through innovative storytelling. As part of the Disney Experiences division, Disney Publishing connects fans with timeless stories across multiple franchises, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. Their wide-ranging publications—spanning best-selling books, comics, and interactive storytelling products—reach audiences across 70 countries in over 45 languages.
About First Book
First Book has dedicated itself to transforming children's lives by ensuring quality education for all. Their mission focuses on eliminating educational barriers to create equitable learning opportunities for kids in need. Their vast network consists of over 600,000 members dedicated to supporting the next generation. Founded as a nonprofit in Washington D.C., First Book is committed to inspiring and empowering young minds through access to books and resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the Star Wars Reads initiative?
The main goal of the Star Wars Reads initiative is to promote literacy and encourage a love for reading among children, particularly in under-resourced communities.
Who are the partners involved in this initiative?
Disney and Lucasfilm Publishing are partnering with nonprofits, including First Book and others, to provide educational resources and engage communities.
What types of activities are organized during Star Wars Reads month?
Activities include livestream events featuring author readings, community festivals, book donations, and engaging activity kits for children.
How does Disney contribute to supporting education through First Book?
Disney contributes through book donations, financial grants, volunteer efforts, and providing essential resources to educators in underserved communities.
What impact does reading have on children's development?
Reading positively influences children's overall well-being, academic performance, imagination, creativity, and fosters a lifelong love of learning.
