There is something magical about a child learning to read. It’s like that first smile, those first words, those first steps. A child can’t read at all and then one day . . . some of the words make sense. And then a few more. And then a few more. And next thing you know, the kid can read!
Author Mo Willems is probably best known for his “Pigeon” books. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus was a 2004 Caldecott Honor Book. But the author/illustrator also has a great beginning reader series—his “Elephant and Piggie” books. There are seven books so far in the series starring . . . as you may have guessed, Elephant and Piggie (although rambunctious little squirrels pop up here and there as well).
I just finished I Love My New Toy and I Will Surprise My Friend. These books have just a few words per page, lots of word repetition and
dramatic fonts!!
to show when a character is really angry or wildly happy or just about ready to explode with emotion!! (as children often are, I might add). Great for learning to read.
Mo’s beginning readers tells about everyday experiences like broken toys, hide-and-seek, sharing, and other injustices. But what I love best about these books are the characters’ facial expressions and body language: an angry tornado smudged above Piggie’s head, a zombie-stunned look of surprise, two friends who cling to each other as they cry ”WHAAAAAAAAAAH!!!” Mo’s ability to create nuanced emotion with such simple drawings is really impressive.
Any other beginning reader suggestions? Post a comment.
