Jog, Frog, Jog - level 1 (Start to Read! Library Edition Series)

...And I still have most of it memorized! It's a great first read, with just enough words so the kids feel good about reading it, but not so many that they get frustrated and overwhelmed. "This is a frog. He likes to jog. Jog frog, jog..."

As a first grade teacher, I have used this book and others in this series to help emerging readers become beginning readers. Because of the phonemic approach, the interesting plot and illustrations from which to get picture clues, the students are able to read this book readily. You should see their faces when they are able to read it. It causes them to want to read more. It's also not a "baby book". The children feel that this is a more grown-up book. Thanks from a grateful teacher and her students.

Most "first readers" are much too advanced for true beginners. But its short sentences, repeating words, and a relatively engaging story make this one just perfect for the child who's ready to read their first book. My daughter was thrilled that she could read it all by herself. :)

My son is learning to read, and this book fulfilled his criteria: the font is large, the ratio of words per page is small enough, and the pictures are large and colorful. Most of the words could be read phonetically, but not all - it was just the right combination of accessible and challenging. All that and an amusing story with great illustrations.