Baker Lake (July 19/06) - Jennifer MacMillan and Daniel Williamson have a tricky task in front of them this summer.

The Queen's University alumni (MacMillan) and student (Williamson) are running a summertime reading-themed camp in Baker Lake.

Tyler Pudnak, Marcus Duval and Akpak Duval read during a literacy-themed camp in Baker Lake last week. - photo courtesy of Jennifer MacMillan and Daniel Williamson

The tough part: keeping some 40 kids between six and 15 interested in books during the dog-days of summer.

"These kids are in school all year long," said MacMillan, who recently graduated from the Kingston, Ont., university. "We recognize that and try to let them have fun."

MacMillan and Williamson lead the kids through reading exercises during morning, afternoon and evening sessions. The book learning is interspersed with crafts, sports and visits from elders ­ all in an effort to boost both English and Inuktitut literacy skills.

"It has had a positive impact on the kids," said MacMillan, who has a degree in international development. "To see them running and laughing is really rewarding."

The co-operative effort between Baker Lake schools and Queen's began in the summer of 2000. It is part of a student-run initiative called the Queen's Project in International Development. The program encourages students and alumni to get involved with community-based endeavours across the globe.

While the Baker program is just seven weeks long, MacMillan said she has already seen small improvements in the students' reading.

"When you see a child read ­ and finish ­ a book, it's a nice feeling. The small moment where you see their pride and happiness is rewarding."

While the kids are seeing their reading skills improve, they are also having fun.

"My favourite part is doing crafts," said nine-year-old Natasha Tapatai. And her favourite book: Captain Underpants.

Kerilynn Iksiktaayuk, also likes the wide-open format of the reading camp. The nine-year-old said she likes books, her favourite being Beauty and the Beast.

MacMillan and Williamson, a psychology student, will be in Baker for another month. MacMillan said she has found the time rewarding thanks in large part to the hospitality of residents. "It has been a great exchange. I feel very fortunate."