Why Does Reading Aloud for Literacy Volunteers Make Me Nervous?

It seems weird for someone who talks publicly for a living to get nervous about reading to a group of people, but that's how I feel about reading in downtown Bangor next week.

What's Going On in Downtown Bangor?

Literacy Volunteers of Bangor is holding a book drive next week in Downtown Bangor. On Tuesday, June 28th, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. people are invited to bring their new and gently used books to donate to Literacy Volunteers. The donated books will be used by this important organization that helps people improve their comprehension when reading. The Darling's Ice Cream for a Cause truck will be there, with free treats on what hopefully will be a sunny summer day. If not, the event will be held on Thursday. (that's the rain date)

Why Am I Reading Aloud?

Every half hour, another volunteer will be reading aloud to celebrate literacy. I'm scheduled from 12 to 12:30. And, for some reason, I'm a little nervous about it. I haven't decided what I want to read. That's part of it. I thought about 'Blueberries for Sal,' which is one of my favorite children's book. Then I considered 'Walter, the Farting Dog,' because it's hilarious. Of course, there's a whole bunch of Dr. Seuss books that would be fun to read. 'Green Eggs and Ham' is my personal favorite. Actually, in a half hour, I could probably read at least two of those. Even though the thought of reading aloud at the Briar Patch Book and Toy Store gives me butterflies, I feel passionately about the mission of Literacy Volunteers of Bangor and so I'm happy to help.

I hope you'll come out on Tuesday and hear volunteers read. Bring a new or gently used book and donate it. Have an ice cream and think of the kids who will benefit from your generosity. It sounds like a pretty great way to spend a summer Tuesday.