D.E.A.R. Day: Drop Everything and Read!
Date: April 12, 2026

D.E.A.R. Day: Drop Everything and Read!

D.E.A.R. Day stands for "Drop Everything and Read," and it's celebrated annually on April 12th, which is the birthday of beloved author Beverly Cleary. The day encourages people of all ages to set aside distractions and dedicate time to reading.

Mark your calendars and clear your schedules—April 12th is D.E.A.R. Day! Inspired by the timeless pages of Beverly Cleary's Ramona Quimby, Age 8, this special day invites readers of all ages to put down their to-do lists, embrace the quiet magic of books, and get swept away by the power of stories.

Whether you're diving into a thrilling adventure, savoring the wisdom of nonfiction, or revisiting a cherished childhood classic, there's no better time to escape into a world of words. Host a family reading marathon, cozy up with your favorite book buddy, or simply carve out 20 minutes of uninterrupted "you-time" to read.

Let’s celebrate the boundless imagination that books bring into our lives and honor the legacy of Beverly Cleary, who reminded us all that reading is an adventure waiting to happen. So, grab a book, take a deep breath, and let the pages whisk you away. Happy D.E.A.R. Day!