The online Ferst Readers fundraiser to provide books for local preschoolers is in full swing.

Thirteen entrants – individuals or teams – are competing on Facebook and Instagram throughout October to see which can get the most votes. Each vote is a $10 donation to Ferst Readers, which mails enrolled children an age appropriate book each month.

“We have about 340 children signed up who are not yet receiving books,” says Henry County Chair Doris Griffin. “As soon as we get the dollars coming in, we can start mailing books to those children.” Nearly 1,800 local children are currently receiving a book each month.

Those who wish to follow the contest online can view the Ferst Readers of Henry County page on Facebook or on Instagram. Contestants are continually submitting new photos or videos to vie for votes. Viewers may vote as many times as they like for as many contestants as they wish.

The participants lined up to appear as characters are Lily Henson M.D., Jeff Hunter with Ashley Vicos, Peto Fallas O.D., Sophe Pope, Mayor Anthony Ford, Yasna Grainger, Matt Isenberg, Lynn Lowrey, Morelle McCrary, Shane Persaud, Jef Bass, Anita Thomaston, and a group from The Henry Players.

Early voting returns show that Yasna Grainger is in the lead, enacting the popular children’s book “If You Give A Mouse A Cookie.” However, there is plenty of time for other contestants to catch up.

The winner will be announced on Halloween day.

“The contest winner gets bragging rights,” Mrs. Griffin says. “The real winners will be our preschoolers who get a head start with reading.”