U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) recently joined Queens author Crystal Velasquez in reading to children during a public read aloud at the Queens Public Library in Flushing. Approximately 40 local kids listened to the reading of “Elmer and the Talent Show,” a book that Velasquez wrote in cooperation with Danny Robertshaw and Ron Danta, the founders of Danny & Ron’s Rescue.
The story is about a small senior dachshund with a big personality living at a rescue facility looking for a forever family. However, since Elmer is an older dog with a floppy tongue who has had several health challenges and surgeries, families do not think he is the perfect pet. The main character, Benny, just moved again and just wants a friend. His parents tell him they’re getting a dog, but his excitement diminished after seeing Elmer. His parents signed them up for a pet training course and then a big talent show. The entire book is the journey of friendship between Elmer and Benny. In addition to friendship, the story explores the idea of acceptance, and how the “perfect” companion might be different from what you expect.
“As a mom of two boys, I know firsthand how important reading is for children, and I was thrilled to see local kids listening to and enjoying this wonderful story,” said Congresswoman Meng. “I thank the Queens Public Library for being such a valued resource for children and thank you to Crystal Velasquez for reading one of her great books. In Congress, I have worked on many issues to improve the lives of children and will continue to do so. We need to remember that our children are our future.”
“Having grown up in Flushing, I’m thrilled to now be part of the incredible programming that the library is providing in the community,” said Crystal Velasquez. “The library helped spark my love of reading as a kid, so it does my heart good to see that spark being passed onto the next generation, and to see Grace Meng supporting this important institution.”
Following the reading. Meng and Velasquez held a question-and-answer session with all the children. Others attending the event included Queens Public Library CEO Dennis Walcott, Director of Queens Library’s Flushing Branch Yang Zeng, and families of the children.
Velasquez still resides in Flushing.
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) recently joined Queens author Crystal Velasquez in reading to children during a public read aloud at the Queens Public Library in Flushing.