Let’s get Marin Kids Reading during Winter Break!
Who says reading challenges are just for summertime?
Winter break is the perfect stretch for curling up with a stack of books, so this year we’re bringing the reading challenge indoors. From Thanksgiving through the end of winter break, kids can read their way through the cozy season and collect stamps from some of our favorite local spots along the way.
Cards available ~November 7
Runs November 23 - January 2nd
What is it?
Five Kid Friendly Marin businesses have teamed up to launch the Marin Kids Winter Reading Challenge!
This passport-style adventure gets kids reading, exploring local shops, and eventually, earning a sprinkle cookie* from Madrona Bakery in Mill Valley after they have read up a storm both winter breaks.
Pick up your passport at participating locations:
The Phoenix Used Bookshop in Larkspur,
The Shack in Larkspur,
Social Klub in Sausalito,
Mystic in Mill Valley,
and Madrona Bakery in Mill Valley.
How do I play?
Pick up a free challenge card at The Phoenix or one of our partners.
Read 10 books or 10 days over Thanksgiving and winter break.
Collect a stamp from 4 out of 5 partners.
Bring your finished card to The Madrona Bakery before January 31st to claim your sprinkle cookie*!
501 Magnolia Ave Larkspur, CA
2650 Bridgeway Sausalito, CA
31 Sunnyside Ave Mill Valley, CA
236 Magnolia Ave Larkspur, CA
17 Madrona St. Mill Valley, CA
Can my child get something besides a sprinkle cookie*? * Yes, as long as it's of equal or lesser value — or you will be asked to pay the difference.
Do I have to finish all the reading squares? We'd love for you to read all winter break — that's the point!
Do I have to get all the businesses to sign my card? There are 5 businesses listed on the back of the card. You need signatures from 4 out of 5.
What if my child can't read yet? Books read to them by a parent or guardian count! Or you can do timed reading sessions.
What if we won't be here the during break ? The challenge runs November 23–January 2 and cards can be redeemed anytime before January 31, 2027.
Can I do it again after I turn in my card? Not for a free cookie, but you're welcome to pick up a new card and do the reading challenge again!
What if I lose my card? You'll need your physical card with signatures to redeem. So keep it safe — otherwise you'll have to start from scratch!
Will a photo of the card be accepted? No — we need the physical card for the final count. Thank you!
*redeemable for a sprinkle cookie or item of equal or lesser value at Madrona Bakery while supplies last, must exchange card for item. One per completed card. Card must be redeemed by January 31, 2027 and expires thereafter. One card per child, per winter. Email is not required.
