Disney & ABC Promote the Importance of Reading

BURBANK: Disney and ABC have partnered to raise awareness about the importance of reading with the nonprofit First Book through the Magic of Storytelling campaign.

Disney is donating its 50 millionth book to First Book, a nonprofit that gives new books to educators and organizations serving kids from low-income families. To commemorate this milestone, Disney and ABC are launching the fourth annual Magic of Storytelling campaign through a variety of activities taking place between now and the end of March. This includes the inaugural Disney Reads Day, which kicks off on February 6 with four weeks of reading-themed events and special promotions at participating retailers and other organizations. The Magic of Storytelling is a collaboration between Disney Publishing Worldwide and Disney/ABC Television Group to help First Book provide brand-new books for children in communities around the U.S. The initiative features a public service announcement voiced by Steven Spielberg, special events, an extensive media campaign, social media activations and a 50-state online challenge.

Kyle Zimmer, the president and CEO of First Book, commented: “The Magic of Storytelling campaign celebrates all the ways that a love for reading benefits a child’s life. We’re tremendously grateful to have a partner in Disney that shares these same beliefs. This year is especially thrilling as Disney donates its 50 millionth book through First Book. We hope communities nationwide join us in our efforts to raise awareness of the importance of reading.”

“Storytelling is at the heart of everything we do,” added Leslie Ferraro, co-chair of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media and president of Disney Consumer Products. “Great stories change lives, unleash imaginations and foster creativity. We are incredibly proud of our ongoing, long-standing partnership with First Book and the work they have done to bring books to kids in need, and we look forward to sharing the Magic of Storytelling and Disney Reads Day with families and fans.”