Thank you for visiting.
This content is exclusive to subscribers only.
As a digital subscriber, you’ll receive unlimited access to Horn Book web exclusives and extensive archives, as well as access to our highly searchable Guide/Reviews Database.
To access other site content, visit The Horn Book homepage.
Log In
Don't have a Horn Book Account?
Register Now
Register Now
Book Bundles: Good Stories for New Readers
Here are three books that feature satisfying stories simply told and inviting illustrations to help with decoding — both of which set up emerging readers for success. For more related books, click any of the subject tags below. Book Bundles are short weekly lists of recommended new books for a variety of age levels. Browse more Book Bundles in our Booklists Archive.
(3)
K-3
I Like to Read series.
There's heavy traffic on the roads and on the water, but everyone must "Stop" to make way for nine little web-footed pedestrians. The text features nine distinct words and helpful repetition ("Cars go. Trucks go. Fire trucks go") and is well supported by the lively illustrations for a satisfyingly simple story. The vehicles' attention-getting colors and patterns offer lots to notice on repeat readings. Transportation buffs will get a lot of mileage from this zippy early reader.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
(3)
K-3
I Like to Read series.
A bunny, two mice, a bird, a squirrel, and an owl emerge from a hollow tree to enjoy a snow storm. When too much snow piles up ("Snow is heavy"), a branch breaks, causing the bird to fall into a deep drift. Oh, no! The cartoonlike illustrations show the other animals gathered around a bird-sized hole: "Friends try to help." An effective page turn resolves the tension as the bird pops out of the hole: "...birds can fly." Subtle details in the illustrations (the sky changes from pale morning colors to vibrant sunset orange and pink) extend the story and enhance the wintry atmosphere.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
(3)
K-3
Ready-to-Read: The Adventures of Otto series.
"See Otto feel sad. // No... Wait..." Twice, robot Otto gets his hopes up when he sees a friend approaching (offering a hug, then a pie). Twice, he's disappointed that he's not the intended recipient. Then Pip appears with a kite, and Otto prepares himself for rejection. Surprise! Pip wants to play with Otto! In this ninth entry in the series (Swing, Otto, Swing!, etc.), the spare, easy-to-decode text and cheery uncluttered illustrations satisfyingly convey Otto's emotional lows and eventual high.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing.