As Minister with special responsibility for Literacy, I am delighted to help introduce this year's Read Up On It kit. I encourage you to delve into the wonderful selection of books that the National Library of Canada has featured for this year's history theme and discover exciting stories about early Canadians who have helped to shape our great country.
Reading is one of the best habits we can develop. It opens the door to endless opportunities for enjoyment and learning. Like any good habit, the earlier it is developed the more lasting it will be. The child who loves to read will develop a skill that will equip her or him to meet many of the challenges that the future may bring.
Today's children, unlike the children of long ago, face an exciting array of recreational opportunities. Electronic games, television, organized sports and sophisticated toys all compete with the traditional book for their attention. More than ever before, children need to be reminded of the excitement of literature and the satisfaction that reading can bring.
This kit is chock-full of reading adventures and suggested activities that will tempt even the most sophisticated "videophile". I encourage Canadians to take full advantage of this valuable resource — use it to stimulate your reading habit and rediscover Canada in the process!