The Casper Journal :: Casper's Community Newspaper

"Boys are failing to read at an alarming rate," said storyteller and author Michael Sullivan, who will visit the Natrona County Public Library March 28-30.

"The United States Department of Education statistics show that boys are an average of 1-1/2 grades behind girls in reading," he explains in a book titled "Connecting Boys with Books: what Libraries Can Do."

Sullivan is a storyteller, children's author, juggler, chess enthusiast and origami teacher, as well as an advocate for literacy especially among boys.

He has written several books for educators and librarians regarding children's education, in addition to the fun and educational programs he puts on regularly for children and their parents.

During his visit to NCPL, Sullivan will address teachers, librarians and others involved in children's literacy. Educators are traveling to Casper from around the state to hear Sullivan's message, focused on "Connecting Boys with Books."

Sullivan aims his message toward "people who believe, as I do, that good reading habits are essential to getting the most out of life, and that those habits are difficult or impossible to acquire if they are not learned early."

He further noted in "Connecting Boys With Books" that "even in this modern, high-tech world, reading is vital in developing verbal skills and higher-level thinking.

Culturally, reading promises to promote a more socially beneficial view of masculinity than the stereotypical messages of today's media."

In addition to his session with educators and librarians, Sullivan will present fun programs for all ages, as well as encouraging boys in particular, and people in general, to learn to love reading.

Families are invited to experience "Tales Told Tall," an evening of storytelling at 7 p.m. at the main library on Wednesday, March 28. A second program will be held at the Mills branch library on Thursday, March 29, at 4 p.m. Sullivan will tell stories appealing to all age groups, making this an excellent family event.

Chess enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Sullivan is also a chess teacher, and invites chess players of all levels to share his enjoyment of the game.

"Chess Night" will be held Thursday, March 29, at 7 p.m. All ages are welcome, and instruction will be available to those who would like to learn to play.

Sullivan will be connecting with children in the "tween" age group, with a night of fun Friday, March 30, from 5-6:30 p.m. Storytelling, juggling, origami and games all could be on the menu, as well as free food for hungry students in grades 3-5.

For more information about events featuring Michael Sullivan, contact the library at 237-4935, ext. 122.

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