Local author and illustrator visit Carolina Kids for special arts & reading event

Local author Donna Thornton and illustrator Kay Rugh recently paid a special interactive visit to the children and staff at Pawleys Island Carolina Kids. The duo led an engaging reading and art activity centered around their book, The UnEGGspected Gift, which shares inspiring themes of dreaming big and showing kindness.

During the visit, students read along with Thornton and painted scenes from the book guided by Rugh. The story features Ruby, a laying hen with a dream of becoming a mother. Program coordinator Michelle Thompson used the book’s message as an opportunity for the children to reflect on their mothers’ love, prompting heartfelt responses about warm hugs, hearing “I love you,” and recognizing the hard work their parents do to provide for them.

Thornton and Rugh also shared details about their upcoming book, The Tale of Two Opossums, set to release on Dec. 4. Based on a real-life animal rescue, the book details the journey of two opossums returned to the wild and is dedicated to everyone who lends a helping hand to animals. More information on their work is available at donnathorntonauthor.com.

About Carolina Kids

As part of the Carolina Human Reinvestment South Carolina, Carolina Kids is a free, high-quality non-denomination afterschool program located at the Holy Cross Episcopal Church Chapel in Pawleys Island. Operating Monday through Friday, the program offers local elementary students a safe, supportive environment focused on academics, healthy habits, and social development. Daily activities include structured homework help, hands-on enrichment programs, nutritious meals, and opportunities for physical activity.