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PRESS RELEASE

February 4, 2005

Jacob DiPietre
(850) 488-5394

MacKay Jimeson
(850) 245-0413

Governor Bush Announces Just Read, Florida! Black History Month Recommended Reading List
Governor touts Barnes & Noble partnership encouraging students to read African American literature

TALLAHASSEE — Governor Jeb Bush today announced the Just Read, Florida! recommended reading list in celebration of Florida's Black History Month. Just Read, Florida! partnered with Barnes & Noble Bookstores to highlight African American literature all month long. This announcement is part of the Governor's traditional "Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Future" February celebration honoring Black History Month.

"Many African Americans have played a significant role in forming this state and our nation," Governor Bush said. "It is important all Floridians have the opportunity to learn about the African American community's contribution to our heritage. I applaud Barnes & Noble and Just Read, Florida! for their partnership to promote African American literature during this special month."

All Florida Barnes & Noble stores will feature the Just Read, Florida! recommended Black History Month reading list, with age appropriate selections for all students kindergarten through high school. Additionally, some suggested books will also be highlighted for parents and adults.

"February is a month for teachers and students to focus on African American history, learning lessons from the past and building a brighter future," Education Commissioner Winn said. "I applaud Just Read, Florida! and Barnes & Noble for helping make reading a priority for Florida students and emphasizing the importance of African American literature during Black History Month."

Florida's libraries will also display posters and highlight books in the reading list.

"Florida's public libraries actively celebrate Black History Month with a myriad of programs for adults and children exploring black history and culture," said Secretary of State Glenda Hood. "Programs held across the state include Orlando Public Library's Meet the Author: The Life and Legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune by Dr. Nancy Zrinyi Long and book discussions of Alice Walker's The Color Purple at the Century Plaza Branch of the Broward County Library, and demonstrate public libraries' commitment to the diversity of their communities and the richness of African-American history and culture."

To see the entire Just Read, Florida! recommended reading list please visit www.myflorida.com or www.justreadflorida.com .

Below are the reading list selections:

Picture Books (Grades K-3)

Chapter Books (Grades 4-5)

Chapter Books (Grades 6-8)

Chapter Books (Grades 9-12)

Adult Literature