American author, Kaye Dicamillo once said, “Reading should not be presented to children as a chore, a duty. It should be offered as a gift.”

In 1995, April 23rd was selected by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as World Book and Copyright Day to celebrate literature, authors and readers. 

Not only was it a day where many authors were born, it was also a day where many had passed away. Some of these authors include William Shakespeare, who died on April 23, 1616.

On this day, UNESCO challenges readers to take a picture of themselves with a book cover or a page of a book and send it to [email protected]. The best photo will be shared on their Facebook page. 

“Books impact how you see the world. The stories they tell represent real life, and so it is important for people to read them, so they can learn. I would probably enjoy joining a book challenge for World Book day because I love to read and do it all the time,” said Ezri Munoz, WJPS sophomore.

Jane Castrejon, WJPS freshman, stated “Books affect how I gain knowledge. They inform people and allow them to express themselves. I’d be willing to join the World Book day challenge.”