Most of us have a book that has either challenged or enlightened us. Now an Aurora bookstore owner wants every kid in her area to own one of those books, in addition to new mothers, hospital patients and those who have recently lost a loved one.

Susan Williams has a passion for books and believes all kids would read one if it's something
they picked out, to read on their terms. With area sponsers' help, she hopes to provide book certificates for 5,000 kids in surrounding Aurora school districts. But not just kids; certain adults, at a time they need encouraging words more than ever. 

Inside her small Aurora bookstore, owner Susan Williams has big dreams for her community.   Hundreds of books, all waiting for eager students to put on their bookshelves.

"Let them come into the store, pick out whatever book grabs their interest. I've got science,
tractors...If books are in every home, it's going to make a difference," she said.

Not just in Aurora, but surrounding smaller school districts. She's spreading the good word to friends like the Hampton Public Schools superintendent, who's excited for her son and his
friends. 

"Not always can they go to the library and find literature in the section they're interested
in," Holly Herzberg said, watching her son and his son play football outside her home.

Nor do they like most required reading. Now, with a book certificate funded by local businesses and donors, they get what they want. 

But she's not stopping there. It's also a reward for kids in speech, 4-h, etc, who do well.
 

"It's a 'come get a book, we're proud of you.'"

But the program is also for those who need comforting words. Hospital patients will get a book
recommended by a doctor, and new mothers, a book on parenting. 

"What we've noticed is that every person has a story, has a need. Every kid needs to have a
book on their bookshelf and every adult needs a book that gives them hope and meaning."

She talks from experience, having recently lost both her parents. 

"So I just know what the power of a written word does. It shows this isn't the end of the
world," she said.

The final group of recipients will be those who've recently lost a loved one. They'll get her favorite book. An idea a local pastor says will greatly help their healing process. 

"Rather than relying on someone who's available to come and visit, they can pick up the book and remember 'someone cared about me,"' Pastor Cole Fowler of United Methodist Church in Aurora said.

Reporter's Notes: Stacia Kalinoski:

The program is just getting underway, but she needs more donations. She wants the program to build and grow, and said if the donations keep coming, she'll keep providing the books. She can buy the books for a reduced price through her bookstore; 25 books cost her about $100.

Starting out, book certificates will go to students in Aurora, Hampton, Giltner, Harvard, Sutton, and Henderson.

Runza and TO Haas Tire have already donated enough money for two grade levels at Aurora to receive books. For more information on donating, contact Susan at www.family@hamilton.net.