BOOK IT! Beginners announced today that it is featuring the Charlie and Lola book series in its 2009 read-aloud program. Created and sponsored by Pizza Hut, the program encourages teachers to read aloud to students in preschool and pre-kindergarten to develop a lifelong love for reading and books.

The 2009 program launched March 2 and lasts through April 24. An estimated 35,000 preschools and child-care facilities will participate in the program this year.

During the program, teachers will receive a free program packet that features Charlie and Lola theme-related materials for the classroom and for parents to use at home. As part of the program, teachers will read to the children for at least 60 minutes a week during the eight-week program. At the end of each four-week period, every child is rewarded with a certificate for a free Personal Pan Pizza to redeem at participating Pizza Hut locations.

Children participating in the BOOK IT! Beginners Program graduate to the BOOK IT! National Reading Incentive Program for kindergarten through sixth grade students. Nearly one million classrooms nationwide are enrolled in the award-winning BOOK IT! Program. Both programs celebrate and encourage reading through pizza, praise, and recognition.