Do you ever feel like kids today spend more time with screens than books? It’s hard to spark a love of reading when distractions are everywhere. But there’s one day that might just change this—International Children’s Book Day!
Since 1967, this special day has inspired millions of kids to read and dream big. Held on Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday, April 2, it celebrates stories that ignite imagination.
This blog will uncover the magic behind International Children’s Book Day 2025 and how it brings children closer to books. Keep reading—you won’t want to miss it!
Key Takeaways
- International Children’s Book Day 2025 is on April 2, Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday. The theme is “The Freedom of Imagination.”
- Author Rian Visser wrote a message for ICBD 2025. It inspires kids to dream big and explore through stories.
- Illustrator Janneke Ipenburg designed the poster for the celebration. Her vibrant art shows creativity linked to reading.
- Events include an international drawing competition and live online readings by famous authors using #ICBD2025.
- ICBD promotes global literacy by uniting cultures with books like The Giving Tree and Andersen’s timeless fairy tales.
Theme of International Children’s Book Day 2025
The theme, “The Freedom of Imagination,” opens doors to endless creativity. It invites children to dream big and explore worlds beyond their own.
“The Freedom of Imagination”
Books ignite creativity. International Children’s Book Day 2025 celebrates this power through “The Freedom of Imagination.” It reminds children they can dream big and explore endless worlds.
Stories like *The Emperor’s New Clothes* and *The Little Prince* teach lessons while sparking curiosity.
This theme pushes kids to think beyond borders. Through fairy tales, picture books, or children’s storybooks, young readers can travel far without leaving home. Writers like Hans Christian Andersen inspire new ideas with their timeless works.
Key Highlights of ICBD 2025
Get ready for inspiring words, vibrant art, and a celebration that sparks joy—discover the heart of ICBD 2025!
Message by Rian Visser
Rian Visser, a well-known children’s author from the Netherlands, wrote this year’s message. The note encourages young readers to explore “The Freedom of Imagination.” It sparks curiosity and invites kids to dream without limits.
His words are warm yet inspiring, perfect for International Children’s Book Day 2025.
This message celebrates storytelling as a bridge across cultures. It reminds children that books open endless doors to wonder and adventure. Rian Visser’s passion for children’s literature shines through every word, leaving a lasting impact on global readers.
Poster by Janneke Ipenburg
Janneke Ipenburg created the poster for International Children’s Book Day 2025. Her design reflects the theme, “The Freedom of Imagination,” using vibrant colors and playful shapes.
The artwork captures a child’s limitless creativity while reading.
As chosen by the hosting National Section of IBBY, Janneke’s illustration celebrates children’s literature. It aims to inspire readers everywhere—young and old—to explore fairy tales and picture books in local libraries or homes.
Celebratory Activities on International Children’s Book Day 2025
Kids and book lovers will enjoy exciting events, with creativity and stories taking center stage—join the fun!
International drawing competition
The international drawing competition sparks creativity. Children from many countries take part in this exciting event.
- It celebrates “The Freedom of Imagination” theme for 2025. Kids can draw anything their minds dream up.
- Entries come from public libraries, schools, and homes worldwide.
- Winners get book awards or a chance to meet famous illustrators like Janneke Ipenburg.
- The contest encourages love of reading by linking art to children’s books and fairy tales like Hans Christian Andersen’s stories.
- This activity boosts global literacy by inspiring kids to learn through storytelling and pictures.
Authors will connect with young readers in a fun way. These online events will bring stories to life and inspire a love of reading.
- Famous authors will read children’s books live. Kids can listen to fairy tales, like those by Hans Christian Andersen.
- Storytelling sessions will be interactive. Readers can ask questions or share their own ideas.
- Writers from many countries will join on platforms like Facebook. Use #ICBD2025 to find exciting updates about these readings.
- Some events might have surprise guests, including illustrators. They might show how children’s picture books are made.
- Public libraries and local groups may host virtual watch parties. This makes it easy for kids without internet at home to enjoy the magic too!
How ICBD 2025 Promotes Global Literacy
ICBD 2025 spreads the love of reading across countries. The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) leads this effort. Events like writing competitions and encounters with authors open doors for children to explore new ideas.
Posters and messages from past celebrations, stored by IBBY, also inspire young readers.
Public libraries team up with local groups to share books worldwide. Alexandria Library suggests stories like *The Giving Tree* to spark interest in kids. Through media promotion, ICBD reaches homes everywhere, making reading exciting.
Its focus on fairy tales and stories unites cultures while promoting literacy globally.
The Impact of Hans Christian Andersen’s Legacy
Hans Christian Andersen changed children’s books forever. Born on April 2, his birthday became International Children’s Book Day. His tales like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling” sparked a global love of reading.
Public libraries still feature these timeless stories.
Fairy tales like “The Snow Queen” inspire movies and new authors today. Writing competitions often honor his style of storytelling. Local libraries use his works to promote literacy with young readers every year.
Hans’s legacy connects children worldwide through shared imagination, wonder, and lessons from the heart.
Takeaways
International Children’s Book Day 2025 is a spark for young minds. It celebrates stories, imagination, and the joy of reading. Kids meet authors and illustrators who bring tales to life.
Libraries buzz with fun events and creativity blooms everywhere. This day reminds us how books open doors to endless adventures!
FAQs on International Children’s Book Day 2025
1. What is International Children’s Book Day?
International Children’s Book Day celebrates children’s books and promotes the love of reading worldwide. It honors Hans Christian Andersen’s contributions to literature.
2. Who organizes International Children’s Book Day?
The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) and its national sections organize it, often with help from local libraries and media promotion.
3. Why is Hans Christian Andersen connected to this day?
Hans Christian Andersen, famous for his fairy tales like “The Ugly Duckling,” inspired this celebration due to his impact on children’s literature.
4. How do people celebrate this event?
People host writing competitions, give book awards, visit public libraries, meet authors or illustrators, and encourage reading through events in schools or communities.
5. Can kids join activities during this day?
Yes! Kids can enjoy encounters with authors or illustrators, take part in fun reading promotions at local libraries, or even explore Mother Goose stories through creative programs.
