MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - English author Neil Gaiman says, "a book is a dream that you hold in your hand." In March, you can hold as many dreams as you want by reading more books, or, joining the various reading activities provided by local libraries and bookstores for the "March is Reading Month" event.

Michigan's independent bookstore Schuler Books & Music offers a cartoon character visit for children and several author talks and books signing for adults.

"Some of the events we have going on this month are character visit with froggy and a story time. Our Eastwood stores have Tigers Announcer Mario Impemba on March 16th, discussing his book 'If These Walls Could Talk'." They are also doing a event with young adult author Rachel Hartman later in the month," said Amanda Strong, General Manager of the Meridian Mall Schuler Books & Music store.

Strong says their book sales have gone up recently. Around this time of year people come out more to read and shop for books as teachers and librarians are spending their budgets on books before the new budget year starts, she said.

Movie books such as Broken, Still Alice and kids books like Divergent are among the most popular books.

In particular, the children book section is strong and thriving as there are lots of young readers.