Contact: Colleen Roche/Samantha Lugo (212) 788-2958
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today read from his book, "What Will You Be?" to first and second graders at Public School 23 in The Bronx. Joined by School principal Carolyn Jones, and teachers Caron Rosenblatt and Arlene Kurtz, the Mayor was surprised by the students, who presented him with books they had written about what they want to be when they grow up.
"It is a joy to see how these young children can articulate their hopes and dreams in the form of a book," the Mayor said. "When we write something we give permanence to our thoughts, and this is what this wonderful group of children have done today. They have given a tangible proof of their commitment to their futures and the future of the society to which they will contribute their skills.
"You are a source of pride to New York City and to your parents and teachers, who guide and inspire you in the journey to your goals," the Mayor concluded.
"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, inspired by Mayor Giuliani and written and illustrated by Kristin Doney, was published last summer by 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.
Copies of the Mayor's book have been donated to all elementary school libraries, and to all branches of the New York Public Library.