Students across the Santa Clarita Valley have been enjoying a three-day weekend starting Saturday, but many just consider it another day away from school. Local author Carole Cliffe held a President’s Day themed book reading at The Open Book to teach attendees about President’s Day and some United States history on Saturday.
Cliffe dressed up as Betsy Ross, and went around to everyone asking if they enjoyed reading.
“I like books!” exclaimed attendee Julian Vasquez.
With the kids’ enthusiasm, Cliffe fed off the energy and began reading her first book, “Alowishes Unusual Birthday.”
Cliffe’s helper Markus Arana joined in on bringing her books to life and dressed as the titular lion character and changed into the owl that saves the day.
A round of applause met the book’s conclusion.
Cliffe educated the attendees with a brief summary of who former Presidents Abraham Lincoln and George Washington were. They learned what U.S. currency their faces are on, their accomplishments and how President’s Day celebrates both of their birthdays.
Attendees also learned how the United States of America became such and how the U.S. flag came about from “Betsy Ross herself.”
Cliffe’s book, “Shaping Up a Rhyme One State at a Time,” teaches readers facts, things to do and history about each of the 50 states in a rhyme.
“Dr. Seuss rhymes and so does Carole,” said Cliffe.
Cliffe read rhymes about California, North Carolina, South Carolina and Massachusetts, states that attendees were from or didn’t know the U.S. history of.
“Reading opens up a whole new world to us,” said Cliffe.
