There’s just something about kids and animals. At the Chatham Education Foundation’s Books on Break free book fairs, animal books are always some of the first to fly off the tables. This year was no exception.
Fortunately, for Books on Break 2026, CEF had Vickie Hannah, a Chatham County resident and author who donated 400 of her children’s books on safari animals.
Inspired by a trip to Africa, Hannah combined her photographs and experiences into two books for young readers. One introduces children to fascinating facts about safari animals, while the other challenges them to search for animals and details through an “I Spy” format. Because she wrote the books as a set, students were able to take home both titles while only using one of their selections.
Books on Break is a free book fair program that serves Chatham County Schools’ rural and Title I schools. Students select four or five brand-new books to take home, keep forever, and read over the summer. The fairs help combat summer learning loss while building home libraries and fostering a lifelong love of reading.
Hannah’s generosity helped hundreds of Chatham County students build their home libraries this summer. She also volunteered at the Books on Break fair at Pittsboro Elementary School, where students were thrilled to meet a real-life author. Many eagerly shared their excitement, and Hannah even took time to personally sign books for the students.
This is not the first time Hannah has supported literacy efforts in Chatham County Schools. In December, she visited Moncure School, where she shared stories and fun facts about safari animals with students and donated the two safari books to every child in grades K–2.
“My mission is to deliver over 2,000 books to families at all income levels, make learning fun, spread the joy of animals and promote children’s literacy. This is a big quest for little me, but with the Chatham Education Foundation’s support, I’m thrilled to be getting books to kids and teachers,” Hannah said.
“Vickie has been an incredible partner to Chatham Reads,” said Heather Bochicco, Chatham Reads Program Specialist. “Her books captivate young readers while sparking curiosity and learning. Beyond her generous book donations, she has taken the time to visit schools and connect with students in a truly meaningful way. Opportunities like these are unforgettable for children—not only do they get to meet an author, but they also leave with a signed copy of a book they selected themselves.”
At this year’s Books on Break fairs, students may not have traveled to Africa, but thanks to Hannah’s books, they can explore the continent’s remarkable animals. Judging by how quickly the books disappeared from the tables, there were plenty of young wildlife enthusiasts ready for the adventure.
Learn more about Vickie Hannah on her website.