Published on January 22, 2019
Media Contact: Kellie Stickney Communications Manager kstickney@kirklandwa.gov (425) 979-6562
Kirkland, Wash – The City of Kirkland invites families to visit North Rose Hill Woodlands Park to enjoy the recently-installed “PopUp StoryWalk,” a local literacy effort aimed at getting kids excited to spend time outdoors.
The featured tale is called “Bunnies!!!” and is written by local author Kevan Atteberry. The book, about an enthusiastic monster in search of a few friends, sprawls page by page along the park’s woody pathway, beckoning families as they explore the flat, easy-to-navigate trail system. The jovial pages brighten the twisting footpath, delighting kids and parents alike as they follow the exuberant monster on his quest for companionship. The book was installed on Tuesday, January 15, and will remain in place until Tuesday, January 29, 2019. “This is such a fun and innovative way to experience our parks system,” said Kirkland Parks and Community Services Director Lynn Zwaagstra. “It gives our families the opportunity to get outside, get some exercise and help their kids discover the joy of reading.” This local “PopUp StoryWalk” program was created by Kenmore resident Elisabeth Lepine, who discovered a StoryWalk® trail while vacationing in upstate New York with her family. Her oldest daughter was so charmed by the colorful adventure that it inspired Lepine to replicate the experience and share it with others. She teamed up with friends Jasmin Thankachen and Beth Yost, whose passion and appreciation for the project matched her own. Together, they have worked to fund the creation of three “PopUp StoryWalk” books, which appear in different parks throughout King County. The books are displayed on large storyboards using sturdy metal frames, meant to endure all kinds of weather. The project has enjoyed support from 4 Culture, Friends of Saint Edwards State Park, Tiny Treks, Snapdoodle Toys and the Arts of Kenmore. The group is currently seeking additional local authors and illustrators for potential inclusion in future “PopUp StoryWalk” installations. Originally founded in Montpelier, Vermont, in 2007 by Anne Ferguson, the StoryWalk® project features installations across the country. The name StoryWalk® is a registered trademark. For more information about Lepine’s local “PopUp StoryWalk” efforts, please visit the website at: https://www.popupstorywalk.org/.
King County Lake Swimming Beach Data Program