In the heart of Franklin County, Pennsylvania, a unique literary adventure is unfolding, captivating young readers with tales of extraterrestrial mysteries and heartfelt friendships. The Franklin County Visitors Bureau, in collaboration with the United Way of Franklin County, has launched an engaging youth reading program centered around *The Area 51 Files*, a whimsical and imaginative book by Julie Buxbaum. This initiative, part of the United We Read 2025 program, invites children to dive into a world of aliens, humor, and life lessons at the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center. Running from July 29 to August 5, 2025, this free program not only promotes literacy but also fosters community, creativity, and curiosity among young participants. This article delves into the program’s structure, the cultural and historical significance of *The Area 51 Files*, and the broader impact of such initiatives on youth development, while weaving in the rich context of Franklin County’s community spirit and its connection to speculative storytelling.

A Galactic Journey Through *The Area 51 Files*

*The Area 51 Files*, written by Julie Buxbaum and illustrated by Lavanya Naidu, is a middle-grade novel that blends mystery, humor, and science fiction to create an accessible yet thrilling narrative for young readers. Published in 2022, the book introduces readers to Sky Patel-Baum, a young girl who moves to Area 51 after her mother’s mysterious disappearance. Alongside her pet hedgehog, Spike, her Uncle Anish, and a cast of quirky characters—including an alien named Elvis and his fluffy dog, Pickles—Sky navigates the enigmatic world of Area 51, uncovering secrets and forming unexpected friendships. The story is a delightful mix of adventure and comedy, with themes of family, resilience, and embracing one’s unique identity woven throughout.

The book’s appeal lies in its ability to balance lighthearted fun with deeper emotional resonance. Buxbaum, a former lawyer turned novelist, has a knack for crafting stories that resonate with both children and adults. Her previous works, such as the adult novels *The Opposite of Love* and *After You*, demonstrate her versatility, but *The Area 51 Files* marks her successful foray into middle-grade fiction. The series has since expanded with three sequels—*The Big Flush* (2023), *Friend or UFO* (2024), and *Way Off Base* (2025)—each building on the zany yet heartfelt world established in the first book. Lavanya Naidu’s vibrant illustrations complement the narrative, bringing the quirky characters and alien-filled settings to life with a playful, cartoonish flair.

The choice of *The Area 51 Files* for the United We Read 2025 program is no accident. Its themes of discovery and adventure align perfectly with the program’s goal of sparking curiosity and fostering a love for reading among young people. The book’s setting in Area 51, a real-life military base shrouded in conspiracy theories and pop culture mystique, adds an extra layer of intrigue that captivates young imaginations. By selecting this book, the Franklin County Visitors Bureau and United Way have tapped into a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, encouraging children to explore complex ideas through a lens of humor and wonder.

The United We Read 2025 Program: A Community-Driven Initiative

The United We Read 2025 program, hosted at the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, is a free, six-day event running from July 29 to August 5, 2025. Held daily from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, the program invites young readers to gather and listen to chapters of *The Area 51 Files* read aloud by staff and volunteers from the Visitors Bureau. Each participant receives a personal copy of the book to follow along and keep as a memento, ensuring that the story’s magic extends beyond the event. The program is designed to be interactive, with each session featuring activities inspired by the book’s chapters, such as alien-themed crafts, games, or discussions, as well as “out-of-this-world” snacks and refreshments to keep the extraterrestrial vibe alive.

Registration for the program is free but required, with spaces reserved through Eventbrite to ensure all participants have access to materials. To add an element of excitement, the Franklin County Visitors Bureau hosts a daily drawing for one of the sequel books in *The Area 51 Files* series, giving attendees a chance to continue Sky’s adventures. This thoughtful touch not only incentivizes participation but also encourages children to keep reading beyond the program’s conclusion.

The Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center, located on Memorial Square in Chambersburg, serves as an ideal venue for this initiative. Open weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the center is a hub for community engagement and tourism in Franklin County. Its central location and welcoming atmosphere make it an accessible and inviting space for families, ensuring that the United We Read program reaches a diverse group of young readers.

Why Literacy Matters for Franklin County’s Youth

Literacy programs like United We Read play a critical role in youth development, particularly in rural communities like Franklin County. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, only 34% of fourth-grade students in the United States read at or above a proficient level, a statistic that underscores the need for initiatives that make reading engaging and accessible. By providing free books and creating an interactive environment, United We Read addresses barriers to literacy, such as access to resources and motivation to read, that can disproportionately affect rural areas.

Franklin County, with a population of approximately 155,000, is a blend of small towns, rolling farmland, and vibrant community spirit. While the county is known for its agricultural heritage and historical significance—particularly its role during the Civil War—its commitment to education and youth development is equally noteworthy. Programs like United We Read build on this legacy, fostering a sense of belonging and intellectual curiosity among young residents. By centering the program around a book like *The Area 51 Files*, which combines humor with themes of resilience and diversity, organizers are helping children develop not only reading skills but also empathy and critical thinking.

The Cultural and Historical Significance of Area 51

The choice of *The Area 51 Files* as the centerpiece of United We Read 2025 taps into a broader cultural fascination with Area 51, a remote military base in Nevada that has become synonymous with extraterrestrial conspiracies. Officially known as Groom Lake, Area 51 is a highly classified facility operated by the U.S. Air Force. Its secretive nature and restricted access have fueled decades of speculation, ranging from UFO sightings to alleged government cover-ups of alien technology. While *The Area 51 Files* takes a lighthearted, fictional approach to this setting, the real-life history of Area 51 adds depth to the book’s appeal.

Area 51’s mystique began in the 1950s during the Cold War, when the base was used to develop and test advanced aircraft, including the U-2 spy plane and the SR-71 Blackbird. The secrecy surrounding these projects, combined with reported sightings of unidentified flying objects—likely experimental aircraft—gave rise to rumors of extraterrestrial activity. By the 1980s, Area 51 had entered popular culture, thanks in part to claims by individuals like Bob Lazar, who alleged in 1989 that the government was reverse-engineering alien spacecraft at the base. Though these claims remain unverified, they cemented Area 51’s status as a cultural touchstone.

For young readers, the allure of Area 51 lies in its blend of mystery and possibility. *The Area 51 Files* capitalizes on this by presenting Area 51 as a quirky, alien-friendly community rather than a foreboding government facility. This approach makes the setting accessible to children while sparking their curiosity about the unknown. The book’s emphasis on humor and friendship also counters the often ominous tone of Area 51 conspiracy theories, offering a fresh perspective that aligns with the program’s goal of fostering positivity and imagination.

Area 51 in Pop Culture and Literature

Area 51’s influence extends far beyond *The Area 51 Files*. The base has appeared in countless films, TV shows, and books, from *Independence Day* (1996), where it serves as a hub for alien research, to *The X-Files*, which explores government conspiracies through a sci-fi lens. These depictions have shaped public perceptions of Area 51, blending fact and fiction in ways that resonate with audiences of all ages. For children, the concept of Area 51 offers a gateway to exploring science fiction, a genre that encourages creative thinking and speculation about the universe.

In the context of *The Area 51 Files*, Area 51 becomes a backdrop for exploring universal themes like belonging and self-discovery. Sky, the protagonist, is a relatable figure for young readers—a newcomer navigating an unfamiliar world while grappling with personal loss. Her interactions with aliens, whom the book calls “Break Throughs,” challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance, reflecting broader cultural shifts toward diversity and inclusion. By bringing these themes to Franklin County, United We Read connects local youth with global ideas, encouraging them to think beyond their immediate surroundings.

Julie Buxbaum: A Storyteller for All Ages

Julie Buxbaum’s journey as an author adds another layer of richness to the United We Read program. A graduate of Harvard Law School, Buxbaum initially pursued a career in law before transitioning to writing. Her adult novels, *The Opposite of Love* (2008) and *After You* (2009), explore themes of grief, love, and personal growth, earning praise for their emotional depth and relatable characters. Her shift to young adult and middle-grade fiction, beginning with *Tell Me Three Things* (2016), marked a new chapter in her career, one defined by her ability to connect with younger audiences.

*The Area 51 Files* showcases Buxbaum’s versatility, blending her knack for heartfelt storytelling with a playful sense of humor. The book’s success lies in its ability to address serious topics—like Sky’s search for her missing mother—while maintaining a light, engaging tone. Buxbaum’s collaboration with illustrator Lavanya Naidu further enhances the book’s appeal, with Naidu’s colorful, expressive artwork bringing the story’s whimsical elements to life. Together, they create a world that feels both fantastical and grounded, making *The Area 51 Files* an ideal choice for a community reading program.

Buxbaum’s work also reflects broader trends in children’s literature, where diverse representation and emotional intelligence are increasingly prioritized. By featuring a protagonist of South Asian descent and a cast of quirky, inclusive characters, *The Area 51 Files* aligns with efforts to make literature more reflective of the world’s diversity. For Franklin County’s youth, many of whom may encounter these themes for the first time, the book offers a window into different cultures and perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding.

The Role of Community in Franklin County

Franklin County’s commitment to community-driven initiatives like United We Read is a testament to its vibrant, interconnected spirit. The county, located in south-central Pennsylvania, is steeped in history, from its role as a stop on the Underground Railroad to its significance during the Civil War, when Confederate forces burned parts of Chambersburg in 1864. Today, Franklin County is a hub for agriculture, tourism, and small-town charm, with events like the Franklin County Fair and the 4-H Livestock Roundup showcasing its dedication to youth and community.

The United We Read program builds on this tradition, bringing together organizations like the Franklin County Visitors Bureau and the United Way to create meaningful experiences for residents. The Visitors Bureau, which promotes tourism and cultural events, plays a key role in organizing the program, leveraging its resources to ensure accessibility and engagement. The United Way, known for its focus on education, health, and financial stability, complements these efforts by emphasizing literacy as a cornerstone of youth development.

By hosting United We Read at the 11/30 Visitors Center, organizers are also highlighting Chambersburg’s role as the county seat and a cultural hub. The center’s location on Memorial Square, a historic site in downtown Chambersburg, adds a layer of significance to the event, connecting young readers with their community’s heritage. The program’s emphasis on free access and interactive activities ensures that it reaches a wide audience, including families who may face economic barriers to educational resources.

The Impact of Interactive Reading Programs

Interactive reading programs like United We Read have a profound impact on young participants. Research from the National Literacy Trust shows that children who engage in shared reading experiences—such as read-aloud sessions with activities—are more likely to develop a lifelong love for reading. These programs also enhance social skills, as children collaborate on activities, discuss stories, and build connections with peers and adults. For Franklin County’s youth, United We Read offers a safe, inclusive space to explore their creativity and build confidence.

The inclusion of alien-themed snacks and activities adds a playful element that makes reading fun and memorable. From crafting UFOs to discussing their favorite characters, children are encouraged to engage with the story on multiple levels, fostering both cognitive and emotional growth. These activities also align with the book’s themes of exploration and discovery, reinforcing the idea that reading is an adventure in itself.

Looking Ahead: The Legacy of United We Read

As United We Read 2025 unfolds, its impact on Franklin County’s youth is likely to extend far beyond the six-day program. By providing free books and creating an engaging, community-driven experience, the initiative is planting the seeds for a generation of curious, empathetic readers. The choice of *The Area 51 Files* ensures that children are not only entertained but also inspired to think critically about themes like family, friendship, and the unknown.

The program also sets a precedent for future collaborations between local organizations, demonstrating the power of community partnerships in addressing educational needs. As Franklin County prepares to celebrate the United States’ Semiquincentennial in 2026, initiatives like United We Read highlight the county’s commitment to fostering a bright future for its residents. By blending the fantastical world of *The Area 51 Files* with the real-world spirit of Franklin County, the program creates a unique opportunity for young readers to dream big and explore the universe—one page at a time.