The Gift of Reading: Join Us This Holiday Season

Why We’re Partnering With Wake Up and Read

WAKE Up & Read is a community coalition united by one belief: literacy is a right, not a privilege. Founded in 2012, the organization brings together more than 30 local partners, including schools, libraries, civic leaders, and businesses. They all work towards one goal: ensuring that every child in Wake County can read on grade level by the end of 3rd grade.

Through their annual Book Drive and year-round literacy programs, WAKE Up & Read distributes thousands of new and gently used books to children across Wake County. These books help build home libraries, strengthen family reading habits, and support students in developing lifelong literacy skills.

At Prickly Pear Salon, we believe in doing our part to remove barriers and expand opportunities for the next generation. Partnering with WAKE Up & Read allows us to invest in something bigger than ourselves, one story and page at a time.

How You Can Help

From November 18 through December 20, Prickly Pear Salon will be collecting new and gently used children’s books (ages 0–12) right here in the salon.

Ways to Get Involved

• Drop off books during your next appointment.

• Donate online through the WAKE Up & Read Wish List: https://wakeupandread.org/shop-now/

• Find diverse and inclusive titles recommended by KidLitMama: https://www.kidlitmama.com/

• Spread the word by sharing our posts and tagging @wakeupandread and @pricklypearsalon

  
  

Every book you donate helps a child see themselves in a story and believe in their own potential.

What We’re Hoping to Achieve

Our goal this year is to collect 500 books for local kids. Together with our guests, stylists, and community, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of families across Wake County.

The Importance of Literacy

Literacy is more than just reading and writing. It is a fundamental skill that opens doors to opportunities. Children who read at grade level by the end of 3rd grade are more likely to succeed in school and beyond. They gain confidence and develop a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

By donating books, you are contributing to a brighter future for our children. You are helping to create a community where every child has the chance to thrive.

Join Us

If you’ve ever fallen in love with a book, you know the power of stories. They comfort, connect, and inspire. This holiday season, let’s share that gift together.

Stop by Prickly Pear Salon between November 18 and December 20 to donate, or visit https://www.wakeupandread.org to learn more about this incredible local organization. Together, we can help every child in Wake County feel inspired, equipped, and empowered to read.

Ready to help us give the gift of story? Donate a children’s book during your next visit or click below to contribute online.

Donate via WAKE Up & Read: https://wakeupandread.org/shop-now/