'Book Scavenger' a book by first-time author Jennifer Chambliss Bertman has been named as the 2016 Youth One Book, One Denver program. The book is about the story of 12-year-old Emily, an avid book lover. The move aims to encourage kids to continue reading, even during summer vacation.

The book was announced by the Mayor Michael Hancock at the Cole Arts and Sciences Academy. The program is headed by Denver Arts and Venues in collaboration with the County of Denver. The initiative offers kids 9 to 12 summer reading programs focused on the annual winning book selection.

Michelle Jeske, Denver City Librarian with the Denver Public Library, said that, "It's vital for kids to be reading over the summer. Research shows reading at least six books over a summer will keep them up with their current reading level going into the next school year, otherwise they slip back by one to two months."  "If kids are reading at grade level by third grade, there's a pivot. Up until that point they're learning to read, but after third grade they're reading to learn."

“Book Scavenger is a story about friendship, family relationships and all the many ways books can make you feel inspired," Chambliss Bertman said. "Part of it is about bridging books and communities, so for it to be chosen to be a part of these summer programs feels like it's coming to life. And as a writer, that's a very surreal thing."

A copy of the book will be provided to kids participating in summer reading programs. The other activities are sponsored by a wide range of Denver arts groups, like Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

"When I was growing up, I couldn't afford to travel around," Hancock said. "But what I discovered one day in this very library was that I could go anywhere in the world. Our hope is to inspire lifelong learning, and it starts right here."

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Nandini