Charley's Backyard Stars
By Renee Hooks, 4th Grader in Ms. Prevatte's Class, Saxe Gotha Elementary, Lexington
Charley's Backyard Stars are young South Carolina students who have read and embraced the Official Children's Book of Columbia, Charley's Columbia Backyard, and wish to tell others about their own backyard experiences. Author Caroline Bennett has visited schools and collected writings and art from participating students.

To be a young Star, visit www.BAreader.com .

In my Columbia backyard, I love gazing off at the fluffy clouds passing by. When I walk over to the pretty flowers, I smell the soft, sweet perfume. My backyard is full of magnificent things.

Whenever I walk over to the trees, I hear a beautiful chirping sound coming from a nest. The Mama bird is feeding the babies. They are so cute.

There is some sweet tea on the picnic table. I will go over and take a drink. It is refreshing.

When I go back in the yard, my dog comes out to play with me. We run and have fun. I can feel the breeze running through my hair.The wind feels good on my face. My dog Skipper loves it when I play tug- of- war with him.

Art by Joshua Green, 5th grader in Ms. Jones's Class, Center for Achievement, Richland School District Two

I like playing on my swingset. Swinging is my favorite thing to do on my swingset. I love my Columbia backyard. It is such a nice place to be.