January 17, 2025 - The Center Woman’s Reading Club met January 16 at the First Methodist Church Fellowship Hall for its bimonthly meeting. Following the business meeting, club member Sue Russell who served as program leader and hostess provided a delicious luncheon that was enjoyed by all. Mrs. Russell then introduced her lifelong friend Carol Robinson Baker who presented a most interesting program to the club.
Mrs. Baker began writing children’s books after her retirement from teaching. She explained to the club the process that goes into not only writing a book but also working with an illustrator and publisher to come out with a finished product and market it to consumers. She brought copies of two of her books. Her book titled 'Armored Armadillo to Zippy Zebra' is an alliterative anthology of animals. The book is not only entertaining for children as well as adults to read but also provides educational opportunities for the readers to expand their literacy skills. She uses alliteration which is a group of words beginning with the same letter or sound to describe each animal. For example the armadillo is described as an “armored armadillo ambling across abundant active anthills.” The book also contains a glossary that defines words used in the book as well fun educational applications children can use to further expand their literacy skills and learning in a fun and entertaining way.
She also presented a coloring book titled 'A to Z Animal Adventure Series Coloring and Activity Book' she wrote that includes coloring pages as well as other activities that teach learning skills such as writing, problem solving, sounds and other activities children will find entertaining while they are learning new skills.
She stressed her experience as a teacher taught her that students learn best when they are having fun. Her books certainly provided this opportunity for students to have enjoyable experiences while they are learning.
Her presentation was greatly enjoyed by club members.
Submitted by Mary Lynn Tinkle
