More than 300 families joined Bolivar Primary School on November 6th for a fun-filled Family Reading Night, celebrating literacy, creativity, and community connection.

Earlier in the day, author Izzy B and illustrator Ben Askew, the creative team behind The Mighty McKracken, presented to students from Bolivar Primary School (BPS), Bolivar Intermediate School (BIS), and CORE. During these sessions, they shared the story behind their book, the writing and illustrating process, and encouraged students to explore their own creativity.

That evening, families returned for a complimentary dinner followed by a special opportunity to meet and interact with Izzy B and Askew. During Family Reading Night, the book team had conversations with students, posed for photos, and connected with families, creating a memorable, personal experience for everyone who attended.

The Family Reading Night also featured pirate-themed literacy and STEM activities, inspired by the adventurous spirit of The Mighty McKraken. Families solved themed puzzles, completed hands-on challenges, and participated in learning stations designed to make reading and problem-solving fun. A major highlight of the evening was the candy cannon, a crowd favorite led by Mr. Lyle Shaulis.

Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors, each family left the event with a signed copy of The Mighty McKraken to continue the love of reading at home.

“This event was a wonderful way to bring our school community together around the joy of reading,” said Tisha Clawson, BPS Librarian. “We’re so grateful to our sponsors for helping every family take home a book that will inspire imagination and conversation long after the night ended.”

Bolivar Primary School extends a special thank-you to the sponsors who made this possible: Pleasant Hope FFA for providing dinner, Ryan Pinkston - Hubbert Realty, Mid-Missouri Bank, CMH, Bolivar PTA, Grand Missouri Bank, Craig Lehman – Shelter Insurance, Grainger Counseling, Jenni Williams, Wilson Investments, OakStar Bank, and Creator Delights. Their support ensured every family could take home a meaningful keepsake from the event.