MARCH 17, 2008

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land read to second-graders at Jefferson Elementary School in Sterling Heights today, marking the observance of March as National Reading Month.

Land, accompanied by the Dr. Seuss character the Cat in the Hat, read the children's book, "The Legend of Mackinac Island," written by Kathy-jo Wargin and illustrated by Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen.

"I encourage children to take the time to read, and I also encourage parents to read to their children," Land said. "Reading is both enjoyable and educational. I want to thank the teachers and staff of Jefferson Elementary School for allowing me to visit with the children and share both my love of Michigan and my love of reading."

Wargin is the author of Michigan's official state children's book, "The Legend of Sleeping Bear." Van Frankenhuyzen also illustrated that book, as well as several others based on Michigan legends.