Author/illustrator Todd Parr, creator of Mike Young Prods.’ Emmy-nominated children’s animated series ToddWorld, has teamed with The Hilton Family of Hotels and publisher SupperTime Ent. to release a new children’s book that revolves around the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Hilton locations around the country will host a month-long program in which U.S. Olympic and Parlympic hopefuls will lead book readings for local kids.
Approved by the U.S. Olympic Committee, the Hilton Family’s be hospitable: A World United Edition features messages of teamwork, graciousness and multiculturalism, and teaches kids to accept the differences of others. A portion of the book’s proceeds benefit the U.S. Paralympic Team.
‘I am proud to partner with the Hilton Family on this unique book that presents positive messages of respect, kindness and diversity to kids through simple and familiar examples”the way young minds process concepts best,” says Parr. ‘be hospitable: A World United Edition is a creative tool parents and teachers can use to talk with kids about creating communities where everyone is valued.’
U.S. gymnast Morgan Hamm joined Parr in presenting the first reading today during an event at the Hilton New York in New York City. Students from Richard Rodgers School of Arts and Technology participated in this first stop in an eight-city tour featuring U.S. athletes aiming to compete in Beijing. Each child received a free copies of the book and was asked to make ‘good luck’ cards that will be presented to U.S. Olympians and Paralympians upon their departure for Beijing.
The second children’s book inspired by Hilton founder Conrad Hilton’s philosophy, be hospitable: A World United Edition can be purchased online through the Hilton Family U.S. Olympic Team shopping portal at www.hiltonfamily.com/usolympic, and through USOC retail channels. Copies of the book will also be available for purchase at the USA House in Beijing during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
