“When we come to it
We must confess that we are the possible
We are the miraculous, the true wonder of this world
That is when, and only when
We come to it.”
There is something quietly radical about recognizing our connection to each other and the world around us. It starts small — with a book, a conversation — and it grows into something transformative, even revolutionary.
This year, we’re inviting young readers to embark on a journey that transcends the page, weaving through conversation, writing, and play. Together, we’ll explore the power of awe — because awe isn’t merely an emotion. It is a force that enhances well-being, deepens empathy, and draws us closer to one another.
This journey will reach 5,000 kids, teens, and families across our programs. They’ll dive into volunteer-led sessions filled with discussions, creative writing, books they can keep, and art as dynamic as they are. Our carefully chosen anchor texts are designed to ignite that spark of wonder - in the world, in relationships, and within themselves - creating a ripple effect of connection and curiosity.
In our Family Literacy and Read Aloud programs, which serve preschoolers through third graders, we’ll be sharing books like:
I Need a Hug by Aaron Blabey
I Am Perfectly Designed by Karamo Brown
The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson
Meanwhile, in our Adolescent Book Group program, students will engage with stories that reflect the beautiful, messy reality of intersectional identities, diverse family structures, and the social issues that shape our lives. Titles include:
Kindred: A Graphic Novel Adaptation by Damian Duffy
Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
·Mañanaland by Pam Muñoz Ryan
To help these stories resonate even more, we’re equipping readers with learning kits - thoughtfully crafted hands-on activities to bring narratives to life and help young readers connect the text with their own lives and the world outside.
As readers turn the pages of these fresh, relevant texts, they will practice empathy, experience awe, and strengthen their human connections. They will expand their vocabularies, sharpen their critical thinking, and — most importantly — begin to see the world in new and unexpected ways.
Wonder isn’t just a feeling; it’s the beginning of a journey. It’s the first step in creating the world we want, and it all starts with one awe-inspiring story at a time.
If you would like to take part in Words Alive’s journey toward empathy, awe, and human connection, you can volunteer with us by clicking here or emailing [email protected]. Words Alive has fostered a vast, vibrant community of over one thousand volunteers, who work with young people, families, and educators to kindle a life-long love of reading. Our volunteers are the epitome of this year’s theme. They nurture the growth of imagination and the future of our world. Together, through action and stories, we can all pass along the awe and wonder from one reader to the next.