"I Was Afraid to Read": Florida Students Share How One Free Program Helped Them Fall in Love with Books

New video series from New Worlds Reading highlights the transformative power of literacy as families gear up for the back-to-school season.

GAINESVILLE, Fla., Aug. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly one million children in Florida are not yet reading on grade level, but this back-to-school season, students like Jahara and Faustino are proving that one book can be the beginning of something bigger.

Their stories are part of a new video series from New Worlds Reading, Florida's free at-home literacy program for eligible students in VPK through 5th grade.

Since launching in 2021, the statewide literacy program has shipped more than 11 million books to families across Florida. Each enrolled student receives nine free books per school year delivered directly to their home, accompanied by engaging activities. Families can select which books they'd like to receive, along with their preferred reading language: English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, or braille.

Now, with the new school year approaching, the program is sharing the voices of real Florida students to bring its impact to life.

One of those voices is Faustino, a Florida fifth grader from Argentina who moved to the U.S. without knowing any English. "I felt afraid to read books," Faustino said, but with help from New Worlds Reading, he found a story that reflected his passion. Now, he says he loves reading in both English and Spanish.

"From New Worlds Reading, I chose a book about soccer, and I loved reading it," said Faustino. "My mom urged me to study, study, study. Now, I feel... incredible."

Faustino's story is echoed by Jahara, a fourth grader who, in her words, used to pretend to be sick to avoid reading at school. Today, she's not only a proud reader, but she's also helping her younger sister, Jazuri, read, who recently enrolled in the program.

"Programs like New Worlds Reading don't just send books. We help students see themselves as readers," said Robin Gregory, MSM., Assistant Director of New Worlds Reading. "New Worlds Reading was designed to help Florida's striving readers strengthen their literacy skills, build confidence, and foster a lifelong love of reading. These stories show how a single book can open up an entirely new world."

As the new school year begins, New Worlds Reading is reminding families that a small moment, like receiving a book in the mail, can be the start of a powerful transformation.

Watch Jahara and Faustino's stories here. To learn more or enroll your child, visit NewWorldsReading.com. Follow @NewWorldsReading on social media for more student stories, reading tips, and updates.

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SOURCE New Worlds Reading Initiative