Hooked on Phonics(R), the #1 trusted name in teaching kids to read, announced today the launch of the Hooked on Phonics HOP Across America bus tour. Kicking off in New York City, the 10- city tour celebrates Hooked on Phonics' 20th anniversary by bringing to town a specially designed Hooked on Phonics school bus that features the latest reading programs and hot new Hooked on Phonics branded electronic learning toys made by Zizzle. Hooked on Phonics reading experts will also be on board to help parents with tips to get their youngsters excited about reading.


As part of the campaign, Hooked on Phonics is partnering with First Book, a non-profit organization whose main mission is to give children from low- income families the opportunity to read and own their first new books. Hooked on Phonics is donating more than $1 million worth of reading programs to First Book and to other literacy organizations, institutions, libraries, and local programs to help an estimated 30,000 kids learn to read.


"Through this campaign and partnership with First Book, we're reinforcing what millions of parents already know -- Hooked on Phonics works. We want to continue to help parents and children build a strong reading foundation for their future success," said Chip Paucek, CEO, Hooked on Phonics. "This campaign is about generating excitement around learning to read. With our new programs and the line of electronic learning toys from Zizzle, we're giving parents the tools they need to help their kids reach their full potential," added Paucek.


"We are delighted to partner with Hooked on Phonics and to leverage the great synergy between the goals of this campaign and our mission. First Book strives to make sure that all children have the finest resources to bring the magic of reading into their lives," said Kyle Zimmer, President, First Book.


Hooked on Phonics HOP Across America Bus Tour Hits 10 Cities from August through October


The Hooked on Phonics HOP Across America bus tour will be present at multiple high traffic venues, events, and retail locations in each market: New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Chicago, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Orlando, New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Dallas. Details, including a tour schedule, are available at www.hookedonphonics.com and www.hopacrossamerica.com.