The foundation of a child’s education is the written word. Parents and teachers continually search for innovative and refreshing ways to build that foundation. These delightfully uncomplicated stories, populated with inquisitive and friendly animal characters, allow young readers to gently confront fears and misconceptions, explore relationships with family, friends and strangers, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. In addition, author and poet Jacqueline Sweeney gives us stories that aid in the building of vocabulary and the strengthening of phonic skills through the repetition of sounds, rhymes and rhythms. This series, whether used for read alouds, read alongs or read alones, is a valuable asset for beginning readers.