Mall Fun for Kids!

Simon Kidgits Club and qubo^R have teamed together to bring Simon Kidgits Club Book Blast! tour to malls across the country. Celebrity storytellers are just part of the events planned to encourage children to enter the magical world of books. "Maisy" and Veggietales characters "Bob the Tomato" and "Larry the Cucumber" will visit select malls. Rounding out each Book Blast are activities and giveaways that make reading fun.

The sixth annual Book Blast! tour is from Saturday, February 14, through April 4. Check your local mall to see if they will host the Simon Kidgits Club Book Blast!

"Most of qubo's shows are associated with popular children’s books and all are filled with great stories and memorable characters," said Rick Rodriguez president and general manager, qubo. "As firm believers in the power of storytelling, we are delighted to partner with the Simon Kidgits Club in sponsoring 2009 Book Blast! and in helping to nurture a love of reading among children."

During Book Blast!, families can watch segments from Babar, VeggieTales, Jane and the Dragon, The Zula Patrol, and 3-2-1 Penguins! Attending kids will have the chance to pick up various activity sheets and prizes from qubo and at select malls, qubo will be giving away copies of With Love From Maisy.

Even if your family is not a member of Simon Kidgits Club, attending the 2009 Book Blast! is free and open to Kidgits Club members or non-members.

Kidgits Club Members will be eligible to receive a free, comfy Kidgits reading cushion. If your child is not yet a member of Simon Kidgits Club, you can sign them up for a $5 membership fee at your local 2009 Book Blast! Or, visit www.simon.com/kidgits to sign-up online. Membership includes a Kidgits Club membership card and T-shirt, scheduled entertainment and activities for families, a Birthday Club (including birthday card and gift redemption certificate), unique programs and offers, discounts and a quarterly newsletter.

The Simon Kidgits Club Book Blast! tour is sponsored by qubo, the TV and online entertainment service for children and families, and developed by Simon Brand Ventures, the business to consumer arm of Simon Property Group, the nation's largest developer, owner and operator of shopping malls.