Flatt named January's reading superstar

(NEW YORK, NY) - Reading Is Fundamental, the nation's oldest and largest children's and families' literacy organization, announced Tuesday that Rachael Flatt was their January 2009 Reading Superstar. The reigning world junior champion, U.S. silver medalist and 2010 Olympic hopeful carries a 4.0 grade point average and is an avid reader, despite her rigorous skating schedule.

Reading is Fundamental and Flatt have partnered to demonstrate the important role reading can play in achieving one's goals.

"My favorite fictional character is Lucy Pevensie from The Chronicles of Narnia, because she is very brave, creative, curious and willing to take chances and explore the unknown," says Flatt. "Sometimes in skating, you have to step beyond what you are comfortable with, much like Lucy does in Narnia."

Such inspirations will continue to propel Flatt as she trains for a spot on the 2010 Olympic Team.

Flatt, a 16-year-old who trains in Colorado Springs, Colo., enjoys sharing her commitment to academics and reading and is honored to be a part of Reading is Fundamental's mission to provide children with free books and literacy resources. Winning gold medals for great causes has been a rewarding experience in this young athlete's career.

Rachael joins a prestigious list of past Reading Superstar honorees. Cy Young award winner Eric Gagne, Oscar-nominated actress Natalie Portman, and Hollywood starlets Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have all carried this distinction.