Books and Blankets event brings reading outdoors at The Sullivans School
YOKOSUKA, Japan – In celebration of Read Across America Week, The Sullivans School in hosted its second annual Books and Blankets event—an outdoor literacy tradition that brings together students, staff, and community leaders for an afternoon dedicated to the joy of reading.
This year’s gathering was made especially memorable by the attendance of the installation commander, who joined students on the lawn to share a story and support the school’s commitment to fostering lifelong readers. The school’s Student Council, led by Dr. Janice Bennett, helped plan the event and direct students and teachers to their spots on the field. They even gave away literacy raffle prizes for each grade level and teachers which added to the excitement!
Students gathered outside under clear skies, spreading colorful blankets across the grassy field as they eagerly awaited the day’s special guest. The installation commander opened the event with a warm welcome, recognizing the importance of literacy and the power of books to inspire imagination, understanding, and resilience. Students listened attentively as he read two books selected especially for the occasion, laughing at humorous moments and enjoying the sunshine.
Following the read-aloud, classes settled into their own cozy areas. Students stretched out on blankets, flipped open their chosen books, and enjoyed a peaceful period of independent reading or buddy reading.
Books and Blankets was a perfect way to end Read Across America Week, an annual nationwide celebration designed to promote literacy and encourage students to become enthusiastic, confident readers. The event demonstrates the school’s dedication to cultivating a love of reading—not just in the classroom, but across the entire school community.
As blankets were folded and books were tucked away at the end of the event, students left with smiles—and many with wonderful memories of reading with their classmates. The Sullivans School looks forward to continuing this tradition going forward, inspiring young readers one story at a time.
