2nd April – International Children’s Book day

Today, International Children's Book Day is also celebrated in many countries around the world since 1967. This holiday falls on the birthday of fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen. Andersen's work is dedicated to young children who enjoy stories.

The world of books is like a shining torch. It unites spiritual and educational views. It encompasses thinking, good language, thoughts, dreams, and hopes. It calls humanity to life's highest peak. Each page invites search and creation of new things.

Children's literature emerged relatively recently. Until the mid-17th century, oral stories were mainly told to children. In the 18th century, children began reading famous works like "Robinson Crusoe" by Daniel Defoe and "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift, as well as collections of oriental fairy tales. It wasn't until the 19th century that children started reading fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen, who played significant roles in the development of children's books. Today, children's books constitute a distinct genre in literature.

Every year, a theme for the holiday is chosen, and a renowned author from the host country is invited to write a message to all the children of the planet. On Children's Book Day, writers and creators of children's literature will receive the most prestigious award in this literary field - the Andersen gold medal.

Traditionally, on Children's Book Day, various exhibitions, contests, performances, conferences, and festivals dedicated to the best children's works are organized in many countries.