Established in 1919 by visionary forces from the world of publishing, libraries and (really!) the Boy Scouts, Children’s Book Week is the oldest established celebration of literacy in the country. Administered since 1944 by the Children’s Book Council, the celebration features activities in libraries and bookstores and has been promoted over the years by a wide variety of posters and fliers created by some of the most talented graphic artists and children’s illustrators in the country. Because of the limited duration of each year’s events, most of these materials are regarded as ephemeral and are disposed of following the week’s proceedings.

This original 22 x 17” color poster by wonderful children’s illustrator Chris Van Allsburg (The Garden of Abdul Gasazi, The Polar Express, Jumanji) is folded in quarters (for mailing) as issued, and is in Very Fine condition. Van Allsburg depicts “Reach for a Book” literally, as a young girl grasps one on many soaring books above her head and is lifted off the ground (and out of the frame).