Dear Friends,

      The Holidays are almost upon us and we hope that your celebrations are gearing up to be happy and healthy! We have good news to report about the Jumpstart Read for the Record Day on October 7. Children and adults in big cities, small towns and everywhere in  between, read THE SNOWY DAY and a new world record was set with over 2,057,000 registered participants. Thanks to all of you for making October 7th, 2010 such a wonderful day!
     Below you'll find more news concerning changes in our Minigrant Program and ideas for holiday gifts. We are happy to be able to wish you the best for the holidays. Please read on!                                    
                                    Sincerely,
                                    Deborah Pope 

                                    Executive Director

                                    Ezra Jack Keats Foundation

                                   Minigrant Due Date and Format Changed!
      The new due date for Minigrant proposal submissions will be March 15, 2012, and decisions will be announced in mid-May of 2012 for the 2012-2013 school year. Perhaps more exciting is the news that we are going green and making all submissions electronic. Click the link for more information. Minigrant Information

                     Keats Books for the Holidays
      Books are always a treasured gift, especially for children, who remember the hours spent turning the pages with the grown-ups who love and care for them. We don't think the picture book is dying - our children need these books to develop their ability to master the world, as well as their imaginations! Explore the many picture books written by Ezra - you'll be delighted by the beauty and fun in his world. 
      We hope you'll visit the Era Jack Keats Foundation website More Keats Books, Amazon or Barnes & Nobel to explore books by Keats. If you loved THE SNOWY DAY you will be thrilled to discover the many other classics he created.  These are our featured books this season.  ENJOY!


THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY, a beautiful and beloved tale that reminds us that even when you don't have a gift, you can always give from your heart.  This book can be enjoyed even more if you buy the companion DVD produced by Weston Woods. The song is one that has been treasured by generations.



JENNIE'S HAT is a lovely story about the excitement children experience when expecting a gift.  Sometimes you don't get exactly what you were hoping for and must graciously hold back disappointment.  But, if you keep giving of yourself, eventually you'll receive a gift you might never have dreamed of. 



REGARDS TO THE MAN IN THE MOON fits right into this magical time of year when children are so open to their imaginations. It's about just that - IMAGINATION! How to be grateful and make the most of what you have.  In addition if you can shine in the face of ridicule, be creative and positive, you will attract some surprising friends.

                                   Happy Holidays !!!

P.S. We're finally on Facebook and Twitter! Follow us, friend us, tweet us and share the links with your friends. The more Keats fans, the better!