Peter H. Reynolds Returns to Boston’s Shubert Theatre for 4th Annual World Read Aloud Day!

The power of the spoken word took center stage today as New York Times #1 best-selling author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds returned to the historic Boch Center Shubert Theatre. The event, marking the 4th Annual World Read Aloud Day, brought together thousands of students—both in-person and across the globe—for a celebration of literacy and self-expression.

At 10:00 AM ET, Reynolds led a live, interactive reading of his acclaimed storybook, Say Something!. The 2019 release, described by School Library Journal as a “motivational must-have,” served as the cornerstone for a day dedicated to the idea that every voice has the power to inspire change.

A Global Classroom

The Shubert Theatre was filled to capacity with over 1,300 students from Boston and Chelsea Public Schools. However, the reach of the program extended far beyond the theater’s walls.
Through a live-streamed broadcast, the event connected with students in:

• 44 U.S. States and Puerto Rico.
• 14 different countries, including Australia, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, and South Africa.

This massive turnout highlights the growing momentum of World Read Aloud Day, a movement that advocates for literacy as a foundational human right and a tool for community building.

Empowerment Through Art

Following the reading, the Boch Center Education team transitioned the excitement into action. Students participated in workshops focused on the themes of Say Something!, navigating activities designed to foster personal empowerment and courageous self-expression.
The event is a natural extension of the mission shared by Peter and his twin brother, Paul Reynolds. Together, they founded FableVision and the Reynolds Center for Teaching, Learning & Creativity, organizations dedicated to protecting and fostering the creative potential in every learner.

"Core to their message is the deep-seated belief that creative human potential exists in every young learner," the Reynolds brothers shared in a statement, emphasizing that this gift must be protected from fear and self-doubt.

About the Boch Center

The Boch Center remains one of the nation’s leading nonprofit performing arts institutions. As the guardian of the historic Wang and Shubert Theatres, it serves as New England’s largest cultural venue. Beyond hosting world-class performances, the Center is a hub for community outreach through initiatives like the City Spotlights Teen Leadership Program and the Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame.

About Peter H. Reynolds

Peter H. Reynolds is the creative mind behind beloved classics such as The Dot, Ish, and The Word Collector. His work has sparked global movements, including International Dot Day, which has reached nearly 32 million people in 190 countries. Along with his brother Paul, he operates The Blue Bunny bookstore and the TLC Studios & Media Lab in Dedham, MA.