When Derrin Gleaton found that his oldest son wasn’t connecting with reading – he said he just didn’t like it – he was determined to help, and to show his son how much fun books can be.

Derrin decided to write his own children’s book, to help inspire a love of reading in his son and other children in the community. The process ended up being an inspiring one for him, as well, as he went on to write two additional children’s books and regularly visits Charlotte-area schools to read them.

“He donates his books and time to the schools and the children, just to see the smiles on their faces,” said Taneesha Gleaton, who nominated her husband as a Read Charlotte Reading Hero. “Almost every Friday he is at a school spreading love, joy, and peace to the students and letting them know that reading is fun.”

Taneesha said Derrin’s example helps children imagine all the creative paths their futures could take.

“He is able to show children who look just like him that they can do anything they want to and put their mind to,” she said. “He is also encouraging the younger generation to be authors and illustrators.”

Derrin has found joy in doing this work, and hopes the children he meets through his work feel that same joy, and a lasting connection to reading.

“It’s very important that our youth know that reading is fun, but more importantly, reading is fundamental,” he said. “We need it in everything we do in life.”

Do you know a Reading Hero? Click here to submit a nomination!