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������Ƶ is excited to announce that Stacy McAnulty, acclaimed children’s author, will be the featured writer for The Little Read 2026. Her engaging nonfiction book, “Our Solar System: A Stellar Neighborhood,” will serve as the centerpiece of the annual early-literacy initiative.

The Little Read, one of ������Ƶ’s signature outreach programs, invites second grade students from four local school districts — Catawba County Schools, Newton-Conover City Schools, Alexander County Schools and Hickory City Schools — to participate in a shared reading experience. 

Teachers use a curriculum created by ������Ƶ education students, which will culminate in special campus visits on April 23 and 24, when students will have the opportunity to hear from McAnulty and attend an original theater production written and performed by the ������Ƶ Playmakers. On April 25, McAnulty and the Playmakers will perform for the general public at the annual Little Read Festival.

“Our Solar System: A Stellar Neighborhood” introduces young readers to the wonders of space with facts, humor and vibrant illustrations — making it the perfect selection to excite early learners about reading and science. McAnulty, who lives in Kernersville, North Carolina, is excited to be part of The Little Read tradition. 

“I’m thrilled to share my love of outer space and books with the students in The Little Read program,” said McAnulty. “It’s an honor to be part of this amazing literary event.”

The Little Read began during the 2006–07 school year through a partnership between Ron and Sandra Deal, in memory of their daughter Sara Catherine Deal Temple, a beloved Hickory reading specialist, and ������Ƶ’s Visiting Writers Series. In 2025, the event drew more than 1,700 students, making it one of ������Ƶ’s largest annual outreach activities.

“The Little Read exemplifies ������Ƶ’s commitment to community engagement and educational partnership which has been part of our mission since our founding in 1891,” said Summer McGee, Ph.D., president of ������Ƶ. “Our teacher preparation and arts programs are among this region’s best, and we are proud to share our students’ talents with our local elementary students while giving young people the opportunity to meet an author of a book they’ve come to love.”

For more information about The Little Read and how to support it, visit .