Harry's big day has arrived - it's Harry Potter's birthday!
World Book Day, a global celebration of books and reading, is being observed today, April 23rd. Established by UNESCO in 1995, this day aims to promote the importance of literature worldwide and honour authors, choosing April 23rd as it marks the death anniversary of notable literary figures such as William Shakespeare and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega [1].
The day emphasizes the significance of encouraging people, especially children, to develop a love of reading. It is sometimes called International Reading Day and serves to focus attention on reading for pleasure and the role books play in culture and education [1]. World Book Day also involves activities such as distributing special book tokens, which schools can use to help children purchase selected inexpensive books, thereby supporting literacy and reading habits from an early age [2].
Meanwhile, July 31st is celebrated as the birthday of a fictional character who has become a significant part of many people's lives - Harry Potter. The Boy Who Lived, as he is known, was created by J.K. Rowling, and her books have been published in massive print runs [1].
In the world of canines, mixed breed dogs have been making waves. Contrary to popular belief, mixed breed dogs are generally healthier compared to purebred dogs, often more intelligent, and known to adapt better to new conditions [3]. Interestingly, mixed breed dogs were the first to go into space [4].
The Day of the Mixed Breed Dog is also celebrated, reminding us that a pedigree is not necessary to be a loyal, loving, and devoted family member.
As for those who work at sea, The International Day of the Seafarer is celebrated to honour the brave individuals who keep global trade moving, often working in challenging and isolating conditions [5].
In our personal lives, many of us have a book that has stayed with us forever. Sharing favorite parts of a cherished book with friends can bring joy and create meaningful connections. The reason why a book is special to someone can be shared with others, enriching our collective literary experience.
In the end, these special days serve as reminders of the importance of literature, the resilience of our canine companions, the bravery of seafarers, and the enduring power of a good book.
Books play a pivotal role in entertainment and pop-culture, as evident on World Book Day when people are encouraged to read for pleasure, appreciating the impact books have on culture and education. On occasions like International Reading Day, books are recognized for their capacity to form lasting connections and enrich collective literary experiences.
