“I was afraid to read”: Florida students share how a free program helped them fall in love with books
Source: New Worlds Reading Initiative
GAINESVILLE, Fla. , Aug. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Nearly 1 million Florida children are still not reading at grade level, but this back-to-school season, students like Jahara and Faustino are proving that one book can be the start of something bigger.
Their stories are part of a new video series from Florida’s free New Worlds Reading home literacy program for eligible students in Voluntary Kindergarten (VPK) through 5th grade.
Since its launch in 2021, the statewide literacy program has sent more than 11 million books to families across Florida. Each enrolled student receives nine free books per school year, shipped directly to their home, accompanied by engaging activities. Families can select the books they wish to receive, along with their preferred reading language: English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, or Braille.
Now, as the new school year approaches, the program shares feedback from real Florida students about their impact.
One such comment is from Faustino, a fifth-grader from Florida, originally from Argentina, who moved to the U.S. without knowing any English. “I was afraid to read books,” Faustino said, but with the help of New Worlds Reading, he found a story that reflected his passion. He noted that he now loves reading in both English and Spanish.
“I picked up a book about soccer from New Worlds Reading and loved it,” Faustino said. “My mom encouraged me to study harder and harder. And now, I feel… incredible.”
Faustino’s story is echoed by Jahara, a fourth-grader who, by her own account, used to fake illness to avoid reading in school. Today, she’s not only a proud reader, but she’s also helping her younger sister, Jazuri, learn to read, having recently enrolled in the program.
“Programs like New Worlds Reading don’t just send books. We help students who consider themselves readers,” said Robin Gregory, MSM, assistant director of New Worlds Reading. “New Worlds Reading was designed to help Florida readers who are striving to improve their literacy skills, building their confidence and fostering a lifelong love of reading. These stories show how a single book can open the door to a whole new world.”
As the new school year begins, New Worlds Reading reminds families that a small moment, like receiving a book in the mail, can be the beginning of a powerful transformation.
Watch Jahara and Faustino’s stories here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVD0fWaI6Tg0R3F5KNj73Y6893EeA4fcL
For more information or to enroll your child, visit NewWorldsReading.com . Follow us on social media @NewWorldsReading for more student stories, reading tips, and news.
