Literacy Work in Turkmenistan - 2011
The government of Turkmenistan (specifically the State Publishing House) invited me to participate in a program designed to improve early childhood education in Turkmenistan by increasing awareness of the importance of children's literature and reading to children. I was in Turkmenistan from September 19-25, 2011. As I did last year, I met with children, educators, authors, and government officials in an effort to increase the amount of children's books published in Turkmenistan. Additionally, I participated in Turkmenistan's 2011 International Book Fair. I briefed various persons about the impact of reading on literacy and what to look for in selecting good children's books.
I wish to thank the combined efforts of President Berdymukhamedov, the government of Turkmenistan, the State Publishing House, and the U.S. Embassy (in Ashgabat) for bringing me to Turkmenistan. It was once again a memorable trip and it was an honor to fill the role of "Literacy Ambassador to Turkmenistan." Once again, Turkmenistan is a beautiful country and the Turkmen people are wonderful. I will never forget their kindness and hospitality . . . and I hope to return for visit number three someday.
One last thought . . . a dream of mine is to collaborate with a Turkmen illustrator and publish a children’s book (in Turkmenistan) in English and Turkmen. This is a dream that I believe will come true.
I wish to thank the combined efforts of President Berdymukhamedov, the government of Turkmenistan, the State Publishing House, and the U.S. Embassy (in Ashgabat) for bringing me to Turkmenistan. It was once again a memorable trip and it was an honor to fill the role of "Literacy Ambassador to Turkmenistan." Once again, Turkmenistan is a beautiful country and the Turkmen people are wonderful. I will never forget their kindness and hospitality . . . and I hope to return for visit number three someday.
One last thought . . . a dream of mine is to collaborate with a Turkmen illustrator and publish a children’s book (in Turkmenistan) in English and Turkmen. This is a dream that I believe will come true.