Over 1,800 books – 1,829 to be exact – were read by kids and teens in the just-completed Friends of the Escalon Library Summer Reading Program. It was a jump of nearly 700 books from 2016.

“We are truly amazed by the turnout and how many reading logs were turned in. We had over 100 logs turned in, which I think is the largest turnout we have had in a long time,” said Library Assistant Amanda Clifford.

As a special surprise treat, those who turned in their logs with the amount of books read were treated to a summer wrap-up pizza party that also featured a mystery performance. When the kids entered the large meeting room in the library, they were surprised to see the Lizard Lady and her reptile friends waiting for them. Teresa and Patrick Killen make up the act and brought along a few of their friends along to entertain and educate the youngsters.

Teresa and Patrick have been married for over 40 years and have been performing the Lizard Lady act for over 27 years. The duo has been performing out of the Bay Area but recently returned to their native roots in Stockton.

“It’s great to be back in the Valley. I grew up in Stockton and this was our first show in Escalon. A lot has changed in this town since I was last here,” Teresa said.

The couple showcased many of their teaching reptiles for the unsuspecting audience. Reptiles included a bearded dragon, king snake, corn snake, monitors, python and a tortoise.

The duo educated the kids as well as the adults in the room, about each of the reptiles, their habitat and their eating habits.

Following the show, the ladies at the library hosted the end of the Summer Reading Program raffle, handing out prizes to the young readers. The library offers fun activities throughout the year.