I haven’t eaten at McDonald’s in 10 years–ever since I watched the Super Size Me documentary.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not one of those pretentious anti-fast food people who look down their nose at you for ordering some french fries. I’m still fond of Chick Fil-A and, occasionally, Wendy’s and Sonic. But McDonald’s just ain’t my thing.
That said, I’m excited to see what U.K.-based McDonald’s are doing. They’re giving away a Roald Dahl book with each Happy Meal. Eight of Dahl’s stories will be featured, with extracts from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Magical Mischief, George’s Marvelous Medicine, and Matilda.
The National Literacy Trust says 15% of children don’t own a book, while only 55% of kids enjoy “very much.” That’s a problem. The McDonald’s program, called Happy Readers, has given away nearly 23 million books since 2013.
While the cynic in me could find some reason to hate on McDonald’s for doing this, as a parent I think it’s a great move. Most kids don’t need another cheap, crappy plastic toy. Give them a book instead.
Good on you, McDonald’s. Now why can’t we have this program in America?
More at The Guardian.
