International Children’s Book Day 2024

International Children’s Book Day is a special day which is celebrated every year on 2nd April. This day was created to encourage young children to develop a habit of reading. It celebrates thousands of books for children that have given them a place for their creativity to develop and shine.

International Children’s Book Day was established by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) in 1967. It is celebrated on the birthday of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. He is renowned for his timeless fairy tales such as The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling.

Every year, different national sections of IBBY get the opportunity to be the sponsor of this day. It selects a theme and invites a prominent author from the country to spread awareness of this day. In 2024, IBBY Japan is the official sponsor, and it has chosen the theme “Cross the Seas on the Wing of your Imagination”. Japanese author Eido Kadono wrote a letter to children, and artist Nana Furiya created a poster to inspire them.

Multiple literary events are organised around the world. Children can develop a lifelong love for reading by discovering different perspectives and exploring their imagination through books.