Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Samantha I. Lugo (212) 788-9364
"One of the things I enjoy most about being Mayor is visiting school children, reading with them and hearing about what they want to be when they grow up," the Mayor said. "I remember how exciting it was for me when my parents and teachers encouraged me to dream about the future. Because of their support, I knew that the possibilities were endless.
"I hope this book encourages children to think about what they want for their future, helps them set attainable goals, and urges them to recognize the importance of education. As the book says, 'There are hundreds of things you may want to be. Anything is possible, once you have your degree.' The goal may change a hundred times, but as long as you have one - your efforts will surely result in a bright future," the Mayor added.
Joining the Mayor were Kristin Doney, writer and illustrator of the book; Tamra Lhota, President of the New York Public/Private Initiatives; Marguerite Strauss, Principal of Public School 1; Barbara Basser Bigio of Goldman, Sachs; Gary Gluckow, President of Bookmart Press; Michelle Gluckow, Vice-President of Bookmart Press; and Jim Conway III, President and CEO of Courier, the parent company of Bookmart Press.
Gary Gluckow, President of Bookmart Press, said, "When I discussed this project with Jim Conway, we quickly realized that we had a rare opportunity to be part of something that will positively influence New York City's kids for years to come."
"What Will You Be?" provides children with a fun way of practicing their reading skills with its catchy prose and colorful, stimulating illustrations. At the same time, it allows them to focus on their personal and professional goals for the future.
The book was published by the New York City Public/Private Initiatives. Funding was made possible through a $25,000 grant from Goldman, Sachs & Co. Bookmart Press donated the printing of 10,000 copies.
Kristin Doney, a professional illustrator, received her art degree from Syracuse University in 1989. She now lives in New York City.
P.S. 1 was founded in Chinatown in 1806, and it is now a School Based Management - School Wide Project school. Its curriculum focuses on reading and writing skills and emphasizes thinking mathematics. The school also offers a dual language program, community-based after school programs and individualized computer learning for Pre-K to fifth grade students.
Copies of the Mayor's book will be donated to all elementary school libraries, and all branches of the New York Public Library.