With so many reports about independent booksellers closing and book sales in decline, World Book Night has been a beacon of hope for lit fans across the globe. Looking for ways to promote “a million reasons to read a book,” the celebrated day will take place on April 23, 2012 this year and will include the US in its festivities for the first time. Last year’s event saw an increase in book sales, according to the LA Times, after thousands of volunteers across the UK literally stood on sidewalks passing out free books to random folks. Brit publishers have posted this year’s selection of freebies, including Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Cormac McCarthy’s The Road, and Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities. American publishers haven’t posted their 25 titles yet, but some choices are expected to overlap. Keep your eyes peeled for the official website coming soon, and visit the UK home base for now to get acquainted with how to become a “giver” (volunteer). Do you like this approach to promote book/reading appreciation?