Family Book Night Returns To Newark On August 6 At Ivy Hill Park

Get ready for a family-fun evening filled with live reading, book giveaways, food, and more. Newark will host its seventh annual “Reading Under the Stars” on August 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. in Ivy Hill Park.

Author Aneesah Glanton Ross will read her book “Everyone’s Amazing and Special,” and Mayor Ras Baraka will read “Together, United,” by Tami Charles. There will also be a special performance for the book called “Greatness” by Regis and Kahran Bethencourt. Authors will autograph the books for attendees after the readings. 

There will also be a screening of the movie, “Mufasa: The Lion King.”

“This event is so popular every year because Newark parents instinctively know how reading and storytelling [add] to the richness of their family life and to their children’s lifelong success,” Baraka said. 

“I am looking forward to reading one of my favorite books to the children on this wonderful summer evening, and I hope to see all Newark families enjoying this fun-filled night and leaving with a full bag of free books for their home libraries,” he added.

The Mayor’s Office of Comprehensive Community Education, in partnership with local education and community organizations, will host an event offering free children’s books, educational resources, and health services to Newark families. Attendees can access information on student opportunities and health support, including a new Dental Mobile Unit from the Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness.
“Reading Under the Stars” is a part of Newark’s 10-point literacy plan, established in 2023 to improve literacy for toddlers through third graders.