Read It Or Weep

Use it or lose it.

It's an old adage I've always heard regarding the human body. Get out there and move, or someday your body will betray your brain, your intentions, your memory.

The same can be said for the brain, itself.

Probably the most valuable organ in the human anatomy, the brain operates in many ways like a muscle. First, we learn our A-B-Cs. Then we learn how to read and write simple sentences. Someday, some of us go on to write books, dissertations, legal arguments and other complicated papers.

But it all starts with being able to read words like CAT, DOG and BUS.

Reading is one of the most fundamental skills we can develop to help ensure continued life success. The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County is doing a great job of encouraging both kids and adults to pick up a book with its Team Read summer reading program.

It's as easy as creating a profile, logging on and entering the books you read over the course of the summer. Participants are eligible to win prizes including Cincinnati Reds and Coney Island tickets and Nook Color e-readers.

Sounds pretty nifty to me.

So, create a profile for your child or yourself, log on, and get reading.

Your brain will thank you.