When I was younger I struggled for several years trying to overcome a personal obstacle -- trying to learn to read. Not only was this frustrating, but it was embarrassing as well. I wanted to be as smart as my classmates, but many of them were able to read at much higher levels than I was. We tried a lot of different techniques, but it seemed like nothing was going to help. But I remember that I used to sit with a book and a cozy quilt while a family member would sit and patiently read with me. Finally, it clicked! Because I didn’t give up on reading, new worlds have been opened for me. I learned that books are the key to the future.

Based on my personal experiences, I thought that I might be able to make a difference in the lives of other children who are either struggling to learn to read or who aren’t interested in books. I did some research on illiteracy and learned that 80% of children in third grade and below have reading skills below their grade level. I also found out that many adults are unable to read simple street signs or fill out a job application.

In 1999 I decided to start Project Books and Blankies in the hope that I could share the magic of reading with others. I thought that the best way that I could share this love of reading with others would be through the gift of books and a blanket to snuggle with while reading. I have spent hundreds of hours selecting bright, cheerful fabrics that I thought children would enjoy, and sewing colorful quilts to accompany the book baskets that I deliver to classrooms, agencies promoting literacy, and the needy. The ‘blankie’ that I present is usually kept in the reading corner so that kids can snuggle up and get cozy while reading.

-Robyn