MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Captain Book, a swarthy, Southern California pirate, has put aside his plans of plundering to take time to teach children how to read.

Morris Pike, a 74-year-old Encinitas resident, dons his alter ego for the Treasure Chest Literacy Program to entertain and inspire children to become successful, avid readers.

As Captain Book, Pike goes to public and private institutions, on and off base, and reads to children, peaking the children’s curiosity and encouraging them to read long after he leaves.

Before he says his final goodbyes, the persuasive pirate leaves behind a treasure chest filled to the brim with a better booty than any gold or silver - books.

Reading is a problem for some children. Through this program, children are motivated to read and value books, said Pike.

Through the Kiwanis Club of Greater Encinitas Foundation, Pike has delivered dozens of chests throughout San Diego, Orange, and Riverside Counties as well as Phoenix, Ariz.

Although the program has been successful, Pike would like to expand the program to other clubs and mentioned that a Marine as Captain Book would be greatly appreciated.

For more information or to make a tax-deductible donation, please contact Morris Pike at (760) 942-8778.