Charley's Backyard Stars
By Dylan Altemose, 5th Grader in Ms. Counts's Class, Saxe Gotha Elementary, Lexington

My friend Adam has just moved from Atlanta, Georgia, and I am going to take him to my three

favorite places in South Carolina. First, let's go to Riverbanks Zoo. I think this is a great place because we can learn about animals and where they live. It is also fun to watch the animals do tricks and play.

Second, let's go to EdVenture Children's Museum. I love it here! There is so much to do. You can feel how it is to drive a firetruck or learn how a storm forms. But best of all, you can meet the world's largest kid, Eddie.

Finally, we can visit Congaree Swamp. It is so exciting. You can see hundreds of turtles and a poisonous caterpillar or two. Congaree Swamp has some of the tallest trees in the world. Those are my favorite places in South Carolina. I hope my friend enjoys them! Charley's Backyard Stars are young South Carolina students who have read 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. Visit www.BAreader.com .

Art by Alyssa Laubshire, 2nd grader in Ms. Addy's Class, Carolina Springs Elementary, Lexington