Using books borrowed from the local library and purchased from various bookstores, a 4-year-old boy from La Jolla has accomplished a remarkable feat of reading over 800 books. A Young Bookworm Huxley Schwartz, who will reach the age of 5 in July, began his reading journey at the tender age of 2 ½. His father, Lee, took note of his son's blossoming love for reading and started keeping track of the numerous books Huxley devoured using a special library app. As of the latest update on June 25, the app has recorded an impressive 756 books read, and this number continues to climb steadily. Huxley's favorite reads include the 'Rider Woofson' series, featuring dog detectives, as well as the 'Secret Explorers' series that captivate him with thrilling adventures. Encouraging Early Readership Huxley's parents, Lee and Linda Schwartz, were proactive in nurturing his passion for reading from a young age. Linda, a book enthusiast herself, invested in a phonics program to introduce Huxley to reading even before his birth. Recognizing the long-term benefits of early literacy skills, the Schwartzes were committed to fostering a reading-friendly environment for their son. Lee, who did not have the same upbringing, wanted to provide Huxley with the gift of early literacy, a privilege he did not experience firsthand. Cultivating a Love for Reading The family engaged Huxley in phonics lessons using a program purchased by Linda, starting with basic sounds and gradually progressing to forming simple words. By tailoring the reading material to Huxley's interests, such as animals, music, and dinosaurs, the Schwartzes kept their son engaged and eager to explore the world of books. Their decision to limit screen time at home proved beneficial, as Huxley's fascination with reading blossomed without distractions. A Natural Reader Huxley's innate curiosity and passion for fiction stories became apparent as he independently chose to read books in the morning and evening. Far from being coerced, he often initiates reading sessions and loses himself in captivating narratives. The Schwartzes' dedication to fostering Huxley's love for reading has laid a strong foundation for his intellectual growth and future academic success. By prioritizing early literacy and providing a supportive learning environment, this family serves as an inspiration for parents seeking to instill a lifelong love of reading in their children. ♦