The Power of Storytelling: Celebrating International Read to Me Day

Author: Rajasree Dutta

Every year on March 19th, International Read to Me Day reminds us why stories matter. It’s not just about teaching kids to read—it’s about giving them a sense of connection, a moment of wonder, and the feeling that their voices and dreams belong in the world.


My Journey with Books and Reading Aloud

My brother was a voracious reader, and my love for books developed early as I watched him amaze people with his knowledge. Inspired by him, I made reading a part of my life and passed that love on to my daughter. I started reading to her when she was just four months old. It helped her develop a deep curiosity and a love for language from an early age.


When I came to Canada, I wanted to share that love for reading with others, so for 10 years, I volunteered with the Volunteer Readers Program. The program runs in various schools and helps grade one students, especially those who are newcomers, who are behind their reading level. I’ve watched kids go from shy and uncertain to completely captivated by the words on a page. I’ve read stories about adventure, resilience, and belonging—stories that echo their own journeys.


Why International Read to Me Day Matters

Reading to a child does more than teach them words—it tells them they are seen, they are heard, and they matter. It lets them know that their own stories deserve to be told.


Research shows that children who are read to regularly develop stronger vocabularies, better comprehension skills, and a lifelong love of books—but beyond the statistics, it’s about the way a child’s face lights up when they hear a story that speaks to them.


On International Read to Me Day—and every day—we have the chance to share that gift. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, volunteer, or friend, reading aloud could be the moment that changes a child’s life.


Online Resources and Recommended Books

If you’re looking to start reading aloud to children, here are some great resources and books to begin with:


Online Resources:

• Storyline Online (www.storylineonline.net) – Free videos of actors reading children’s books aloud.
• Read Aloud Revival (www.readaloudrevival.com) – Resources and book recommendations for reading aloud to kids.
• International Children’s Digital Library (www.childrenslibrary.org) – Free access to children’s books in multiple languages.
• Unite for Literacy (www.uniteforliteracy.com) – A collection of free, narrated picture books for young readers.

Recommended Books:

• • Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. & Eric Carle – My daughter’s personal favorite, this rhythmic, repetitive book engages young readers with its colorful animals and predictable pattern, making it a great first read-aloud experience.
  • The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle – A beautifully illustrated story that introduces young children to counting, colors, and the life cycle of a butterfly through a hungry caterpillar’s journey.
  • Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña – A heartwarming tale about a young boy and his grandmother’s bus ride through the city, teaching gratitude and the beauty of everyday life.
  • The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi – A touching story about a young girl who moves to a new country and struggles with whether to keep her Korean name or adopt a new one, ultimately learning the power of identity and self-acceptance.
  • We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom – Inspired by Indigenous-led movements, this visually stunning book empowers children to protect the Earth and its water sources.
  • The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson – A must-read for children who feel different, reminding them that their unique experiences make them special and that they are not alone.

So, pick up a book. Share a story. And help build a world where every child, no matter where they come from, finds a place in the pages of a book.