Schools across the country and throughout our region hold special events in honor of Black History Month.

One such event, known as African American Read-In Day, was held at Van Duyn Elementary School in Syracuse.

"I love reading. I love "Amulet." It's a book with aliens," said Van Duyn Elementary third grader Ashlynn Nolan. 

Nolan wasn't reading much about aliens Thursday. However, she was taking in some pretty good literature. 

About 20 prominent guest readers visited Ashlynn's school to read short stories as part of Black History Month.

African American Read In Day has been a nationwide initiative for 30 years. Schools like Van Duyn provide the books, written by African American authors.

"We know representation matters," said Van Duyn Principal Eva Williams. "But what's more important is that not only do we see books that have African Americans in it, but also that those authors of those books get recognized as well."

In addition to great literature, the guests helped incite even more energy to the books. 

Some special visitors included Syracuse City Court judge Derrek Thomas and our own Spectrum News anchor Iris St. Meran. 

"When they see prominent figures from their community come to their school and read to them and show them how much reading is fun and how they enjoy it, and expose them to different authors, it shows them that reading is a valuable tool and it can be fun and educational, " said St. Meran. 

Helping students develop the mindset that dreams can come true.  

"I really want to be a famous entrepreneur. So, I want to succeed that dream, " said Van Duyn fifth grader Eva Hill. 

"I want to be an archeologist when I grow up. A singer, a miner, a scientist, or anyone who adventures, and I think books can help that," said Nolan.

And as books indicate, anything is possible.

The event was started by the Black Caucus of the National Council of English Teachers. Van Duyn has been holding the event for seven years.