Fayette County Public Schools is launching 4-Reading Out Loud, a new literacy initiative spotlighting African-American authors who write books with children of color as the main character. On Sundays this summer, different guest readers will read aloud on a special Facebook Live webpage. to introduce participants to a variety of diverse children’s books while promoting language and literacy development.

Families who register for the event will have an opportunity to receive a copy of the book so children will not only see and hear the stories, but also will build their home libraries. Fayette County Superintendent Manny Caulk kicked off the series by reading “The Undefeated,” written by Kwame Alexander and illustrated by Kadir Nelson. The book traces the trauma of slavery, the faith and fire of the civil rights movement, and the perseverance of some of the world’s greatest heroes. Other books to be read are highlighted on the registration site.