Dear family, friends, enemies, random internet perusers, and distant acquaintances:

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! During the month of May, I'll be attempting to read as many books as possible to raise money for Open Books, LTD. This nonprofit group promotes literacy in Chicago through a ton of awesome programs that pair reading and writing with fun activities and awesome people. Check them out sometime if you get a chance at http://www.open-books.org/

A lot of people raise money doing active things like running, jumping, and shouting. If you know me, you know I'm a little more laid back. I also think that more reading = more awesomeness for everyone, whereas running, jumping, and shouting are likely to give me sore knees and a sore throat. When May begins, I'll be updating this page with a list of books I've read so you can follow along.

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Leaving your name is optional, although it's the best way for me to know that I should thank you and give you a big hug next time I see you.

Thanks for your support, even if it's only good vibes and reading suggestions!

Love, Elyse

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Reading list: (Updated May 3)

1. In the First Circle (Solzhenitsyn) [in progress] : 200 pgs
2. Nerve Cells and Animal Behavior (Simmons and Young): 250 pgs
3. Middlesex (Eugenides) [in progress]: 100 pgs
4. Countless scientific papers [continuous]