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Ģ����ý has selected �Circle� by acclaimed children's author Mac Barnett as the featured book for the 2027 Little Read program, bringing one of the nation's most celebrated voices in children's literature to the region for a three-day residency in April 2027.

Barnett is the current National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, a position appointed by the Library of Congress and Every Child a Reader to promote children's literature and literacy across the United States. He is the bestselling author of dozens of books for young readers, including �Sam and Dave Dig a Hole,� �Extra Yarn� and the beloved Shape Trilogy, which includes �Circle.� He is also the co-creator of �Shape Island,� the award-winning animated series on Apple TV+ inspired by the characters from the Shape Trilogy.

Written by Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen, �Circle� tells the story of a circle who embarks on an adventure to help a friend while confronting uncertainty and fear. Through humor, imagination and friendship, the book encourages young readers to explore themes of courage, trust and empathy.

The Little Read program is a signature community literacy initiative of Ģ����ý's Visiting Writers Series. Each year, participating students receive a copy of the selected book, engage with curriculum developed by students in Ģ����ý School of Education and do creative activities related to the book. The experience culminates with a visit to Ģ����ý to hear from the author and see an original theatrical production by Ģ����ý Playmakers theater group. 

More than 1,500 second-grade students participate annually through partnerships with four local school districts: Catawba County Schools, Alexander County Schools, Hickory Public Schools and Newton-Conover City Schools.

�One of the things that makes Little Read so special is that it brings together schools, families, university students and the broader community around a shared story,� said Cat Niekro, vice president for institutional advancement and university marketing and communications. �Mac Barnett has a remarkable ability to spark imagination and curiosity in young readers, and we're excited to welcome him to Ģ����ý and introduce �C����������&�Բ�����; to thousands of students across our region.�

Ģ����ý President Summer McGee, Ph.D., said the program exemplifies the university commitment to educational opportunity and community engagement.

�Little Read reflects Ģ����ý's commitment to educational opportunity, community engagement and connection,� McGee said. �By bringing together elementary school students with exceptional authors and our wonderful Ģ����ý students, we create opportunities to build relationships and to help foster a love of reading, curiosity, and lifelong learning that can influence young people for years to come.�

Since its launch, Little Read has welcomed a distinguished roster of authors and illustrators. Recent guests include Stacy McAnulty (�Our Solar System: A Stellar Neighborhood�), Lucky Diaz (�La Guitarrista�), Michaela Goade (�We Are Water Protectors�), Naomi Shihab Nye (�The Turtle of Michigan�) and Sara Pennypacker (�Clementine�).

Barnett will visit Ģ����ý April 22�24, 2027. The free community event is set for Saturday, April 24, at 10 a.m. in P.E. Monroe Auditorium on Ģ����ý campus. No tickets are required.