This month is packed with exciting and meaningful literary celebrations: International Read to Me Day (March 19th), World Storytelling Day (March 20th), World Poetry Day (March 21st), and World Folktales and Fables Week (March 16–22nd). Some people might overlook these dates, but in my opinion, they serve as a beautiful reminder. In the midst of life’s daily hustle and all the noise around us, it’s important to pause and hold onto what might otherwise fade into memory. These days give us the perfect excuse to celebrate the power of words and stories.
International Read to Me Day is all about encouraging people, especially children, to ask others to read to them. The idea is not only to enjoy stories together but also to empower kids to claim this cultural right, reminding adults that reading aloud is a shared experience worth nurturing. Any day is a good day to celebrate the joy of reading in community, but this one gives us a special reason to do so.
Children’s books to read in March
Let’s start diving into Luciana Murzi’s Orquesta de animales as we march happily and noisily! And if you’re exploring the Helmet Libraries, be sure to check out her Había una vez una laguna and Ronda de Familia as well. I have to admit, I’m not the biggest fan of Elena Torres’ illustrations in the latter, but the rhythm and storytelling make up for it, it’s a delight!
For World Storytelling Day, why not pick up La venganza contra el chistoso by Graciela Montes? In this story, we meet Ema, who has had enough of a certain situation, and she’s going to make some noise about it! If you enjoy it, you’re in luck: Helmet Libraries have seven more of her books, all guaranteed to be just as engaging. For now, they’re all in Spanish, but hey, that’s a great reason to brush up on the language!
7 Poetry books for children
As for World Poetry Day, why not turn your nearest library into your own personal poetry festival? I’d love to recommend four authors in honor of this literary celebration, finally poetry!
Some say poetry is outdated or barely read anymore, but I have to disagree! Just take a look at Our Earth is a Poem by Cuban-American author Margarita Engle, a stunning collection featuring various poets, breathtaking illustrations, and a beautifully curated edition in English. Trust me, this book will make your heart dance!
Continuing in the poetic realm, let’s turn to English author Michael Rosen. His books are pure fun, especially for young readers. Check out Ready for Spaghetti: Funny Poems for Funny Kids, Out of This World: Poems to Make You Laugh, Smile, and Think, and the timeless classic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, available in Finnish, Somali, English, Chinese, Bengali, and Russian. Honestly, anything by Rosen is bound to be a good time.
And a must-read: An Earth Song by American writer and activist Langston Hughes, featuring magnificent illustrations by Tequitia Andrews. This book is pure magic. Pro tip: read it with jazz playing in the background, and take your time with the illustrations, they just might make you feel like you’re flying. Reading it is welcoming the warmth of brighter days.
If you’re looking for poetry in Spanish, Helmet Libraries hold three treasures by María Cristina Ramos: La luna lleva un silencio, Arroz con lobo, and Maíces de silencio. I highly recommend diving into them, imagine taking a thrilling plunge from the highest diving board into refreshing waters. These books will revitalize your spirit just in time for spring!
Discover more children's books suggestions in #NinhoLibrary!
Now, let’s talk about World Folktales and Fables Week. For many of us, our first introduction to storytelling came from the folktales and fables passed down by our grandparents. These stories have long been intergenerational, shared from mouth to mouth in communities around the world. Often cautionary or filled with moral lessons, they captivate us with their mystery and leave us hungry for more.
I know I’ve already gone on for quite a bit, but I can’t help itI get so excited about these incredible reads! There are thousands of books I’d love to recommend for World Folktales and Fables Week since it’s one of my absolute favorite subgenres. But don’t worry, for the sake of time, I’ll highlight just one: Qayb libaax=The Lion’s Share: A Somali Folktale. Available in both Somali and English, this tale will keep you on the edge of your seat!
As we immerse ourselves in these wonderful stories, may we all be filled with heaven (que todes nos llenemos de cielo), to borrow the beautiful words of poet María Cristina Ramos.
Happy allergy-free reading and lots of sunshine!
Get to know the author, Ivonne Carlos
Expert in Community Engagement and Culture at Cooperative 3E in Vaasa. MA in literature from the University of Bologna. Workshop facilitator, reading mediator, and creator of autonomous libraries. She adores dogs, loves baby drool, and can’t live without spicy food. She has published books, is an independent researcher, and activist.
