A Connecticut author and illustrator is helping foster a love for reading with a donation of books from one of his most famous series. Mercer Mayer, known for writing and illustrating the Little Critter and Little Monster children’s book series, has donated an array of books to the Connecticut Education Foundation (CEF), CEA’s charitable arm, to distribute to children across the state.
The donated books are all from the Little Critter collection and range from board books for the youngest book fans to hardcovers ready to help early readers build confidence in their skills. Mayer published his first book in 1967 and has since released more than 300 children’s titles.
“This was a really exciting donation of brand-new books our teachers are going to love sharing with their students,” said CEF President Joslyn DeLancey. “We want to thank Mercer Mayer for giving to teachers in the state where he lives. It means so much for a local author and illustrator to want to give back in their home state.”
The books will be distributed along with other donations at CEF events in the coming months.
CEF supports students and educators year round through a variety of programs.
The Holiday Bear Project, now accepting nominations and sponsors, provides holiday gifts for students in pre-K through grade 12 who otherwise would not receive them. The program serves children experiencing significant hardships, including homelessness, refugee status, or housing and food insecurity. Each student is matched with a sponsor who fulfills a personalized wish list.
CEF also organizes Read Across Connecticut each February or early March, promoting literacy and a love of reading among students. Additional programs include the Boland Fund, which offers financial support to teachers facing catastrophic hardships, and a range of scholarships for college students pursuing teaching careers.
To sustain these initiatives, CEF will host the CEA Celebrates Fundraising Gala on October 24 at Anthony’s Ocean View in New Haven. The event will feature a cocktail reception, awards, dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. Local Associations can participate as Gold or Silver Apple Sponsors—with a reserved table and recognition in the program booklet—or purchase individual tickets.
