By Denise Gary
Photographs © Denise Gary
Sometimes, the greatest moments in life are witnessing children experiencing the joy of life.
Kids Need to Read presented Mr. Shine to the kindergarten–2nd grade students of Children First Academy, a school for homeless and disadvantaged children in downtown Phoenix, Arizona.
During his show, Go Wild for Books!, Mr. Shine sings and performs using instruments, puppets, and magic tricks, all the while encouraging children to read.
The experience is lively and exhilarating!
Kids at Children First Academy actively participated in Mr. Shine’s songs, including a hula song . . .
. . . and a shark song.
Mr. Shine recruited some help for the shark song.
Rock star hair was important, of course.
Why not add in some bright red rock star hair?
Then watch out for the shark’s next meal!
All this shark wanted was a good book!
Who isn’t fascinated by a good magic trick?
Many kids tried in vain to hold back their laughter during Mr. Shine’s silly antics.
But mostly, the kids laughed and laughed!
Naturally, Kids Need to Read gave each student a book to keep and read with their families. (Thank you, author Jeanne McNaney!)
We are so grateful to Mr. Shine for coming out to Children First Academy to encourage kids to read in such a fun and unforgettable manner. I am sure these children will remember him for a very long time! I know I will! “Music is fun; music is fun for everyone. . . .”
More Photos: “Mr. Shine Goes Wild for Books” Photo Gallery
