TODAY: Today is the birthday of Hans Christian Andersen, and International Children’s Book Day.

The goal of the day is to create and further in children a love of reading. The day also spotlights children’s books such as those written by Hans Christian Andersen.

His most famous fairy tales include The Emperor’s New Clothes, The Little Mermaid, The Nightingale, The Snow Queen, The Ugly Duckling, The Little Match Girl, and Thumbelina.

How might one observe the day? Here are some suggestions from various websites.

Invite children to read aloud their favorite children’s story. If you have young children, volunteer to read a story to them, or their entire classroom.

Make bookmarks with children.

Organize storytelling activities. Introduce different folktales from around the world. Hold reading and creative writing workshops.

Encourage children to dress up as their favorite book characters.

How might you help a child choose a favorite story? The web resources list recommended children’s books including favorites such as The Giving Tree, Charlotte’s Web, and Madeline. The list also includes recommended graphic novels such as Awesome Man and Wonderstruck.

Or ask a librarian. They know books and often love to talk about them.

This day could be used to celebrate the life of Hans Christian Andersen, the prolific Danish author of 38 fairy tales. Learn something about the author himself, like he always carried a rope with him to use as a fire escape if he needed to.

Many of his works were adapted by Disney for films and shorts, though the stories were often changed to have happier endings.

Most importantly, make reading a fun and engaging experience. Make it a regular part of your and your child’s day.