A Great Escape

The weather is changing, making it the perfect time for you to curl up with a good book. But that's not the only reason to read in October.

October is a month to escape to somewhere fantastic, without having to leave your home. It's National Book Month, when people everywhere are encouraged to read just for the pleasure of it.

With fall here and settling down, it's important for kids - and everyone else, for that matter - to remember the delights that come from reading for enjoyment. Here are some tips from the National Book Foundation for getting the whole family involved in National Book Month, and perhaps creating some lifelong habits of reading good books.

• Family trips to the local library. Encourage each family member to check out at least one book.

  
  

• Family reading night. Set aside time to read each week. Afterward, hold family discussions, giving each member a chance to talk about the book they are reading.

  
  

• Family game nights about literature. Play some of your favorite family games with a literary twist, like charades based on favorite book titles.

  
  

• Reading with your kids. Not only does this help your child realize the importance of reading, it is a great opportunity to spend one-on-one time together.

The American Library Association, which was founded in October 1876, also has programs in place to encourage reading. Visit ala.org to find out more.