CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. --
Reading can create and stimulate imagination in the minds of young children. Studies also show reading is beneficial in developing young minds.
The Marine Corps Exchange aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune hosted a children’s book fair June 16 where children could come, sit down and talk with authors about reading, writing or whatever they wanted to.
Glenna C. Orr, author of two books and 2011 Mom’s Choice Awards Winner, was at the fair and promoted her books, while talking to many children who came by.
Orr fully embraced the concept of the book fair by bringing a beloved children’s book character to life by wearing a Clifford the Big Red Dog costume, which attracted parents and children alike. Orr took many pictures with young kids in her outfit throughout the day.
“The manager of the exchange asked me to come and be a part of the festivities,” said Orr. “I love being able to talk with families and children. I love doing story times with them and share the experiences I had with the children on base.”
Orr goes to different military installations throughout the year, including MCB Quantico, Va. and Fort George G. Meade, Md.
“It’s all about reaching out to the children on base and to talk to them about their own stories as well,” she said. “I think we can learn a lot from children and their initiatives, thoughts and ideas. We’ve been talking about what they like to do and their experiences in school whenever they come sit down with me.”
The book fair started in the morning and lasted until the early afternoon with families bringing their young ones for pictures, books or just to talk to Orr about her work and what she does. She read from her books and children would gather around and listen. After she read a passage she would converse with the kids about their home and school lives.
Orr’s books, “Hearts Always Open” and “Open Minds, Open Hearts,” were on display at the book fair for people to look at, read and purchase. Along with personally signing books families purchased, Orr also gave away a few copies to some children during the event.
“My husband is retired Army,” said Orr. “So when we have overseas tours, I would teach at the (Department of Defense) schools when we were there, and my teaching profession became a very big part of my life, so whenever I get to speak with children again about their lives, it really makes me happy.”