SYLVANIA—During Right to Read Week Feb. 25-29 at Sylvania Franciscan Academy, students had the opportunity to meet Jeanette Canyon, illustrator of children’s books including “Over in the Ocean, Over in the Jungle” and “City Beats.”

Mrs. Canyon’s colorful and whimsical illustrations are sculpted entirely from polymer clay. The students were amazed to hear of the kitchen tools Mrs. Canyon uses to create the illustrations, such as a pasta maker and a food processor.

They will take what they learned to try their hands at making their own polymer clay illustrations in the coming weeks.

The week also included a book swap and a T-shirt contest, and ended with a “read-in” in the gym. In keeping with the “Dive Into Reading” theme, students brought in beach blankets and their favorite books to enjoy.

“Motivating young readers with engaging reading materials and exciting programs are critical in helping our students fuel a love of reading,” says Roberta Handel, librarian. “Our students really pick up on the theme each year and are excited to read all about that particular subject.”