Dear teacher, librarians, school administrators, staff members, community leaders, and—most of all—young readers,

There's a quote from a remarkable young woman that I'd like to share with you:

"Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world." —Malala Yousafzai, corecipient of the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize at age seventeen

If you believe, as I do, in the powerful truth of this statement, then just imagine what can happen when an entire community shares the experience of reading the same book together.

I must confess that I was not much of a reader growing up. When I do school visits and admit this, more than a few kids in my audience are clearly relieved and, hopefully, encouraged.

I truly believe that if I'd been exposed to a One School, One Community Read when I was young, I would have become a devoted reader much sooner. For readers like I was—the ones wondering what all the fuss is about—a OS/OC Read says: Hey, come join in the fun. For diverse communities, it says: Every opinion will be valued. For families with little time, it says: Here is a way we can enjoy a meaningful activity together.

No matter what the book, the experience of reading together, and yes—disagreeing together—helps us bridge gaps, open conversations, and rediscover community.

And we sure could use more of that these days.

I've been extraordinarily lucky to have my novels used in many OS/OC Reads, and every time it happens, I'n reminded that I have the best job on the planet.

I've seen schools where every child, every teacher, every librarian, every crossing guard, every secretary, every custodian, and every parent read my book.

I've seen funding-challenged Title I schools and affluent private schools connect to read my book together, resulting in lasting and important friendships.

I've seen groups sponsor gorillas in sanctuaries, raise money for zoos, and collect pennies for pet shelters.

I've seen communities not just read my book, but experience it. I've seen songs, dances, plays, poems, paintings, sculptures, recess games—even yoga!

To the extent that my books have provided a launchpad for discussions about how we treat, not just the natural world, but each other, I'm honored beyond words.

My kids are grown now, and I'd never had the opportunity to read Ivan with a child. So imagine this, if you can: I attended a OS/OC event where the entire school—hundreds of kids and adults—waited until I could visit so that we could enjoy the last chapter of The One and Only Ivan together.

I sat before that assembled group, each person holding a copy of the novel, and read the last chapter aloud while they all read along silently. I'll cherish that experience forever, for in that moment I got to see the way a book can connect us, change us, maybe even help us love each other a little bit more.

My heart would be full indeed if I could attend every single OS/OC event, but I wouldn't get much writing done. When I am able to make them, these videos are a small way of thanking you for valuing the stories I've written enough to share them.

I wish you great joy, and send you great thanks.

Happy reading.