Luck the Duck not only focuses on the short vowel U sound, but is also about a silly duck that is very curious and jumps into something smelly and as he tries different things to get rid of the smell, he just seems to get even dirtier. Finally, he goes into a tub and washes everything off. This book teaches us in an entertaining way that if we keep trying to reach our goal, even if it seems like it is getting worse, we should never give up because eventually we will figure out a way to solve our problem.

Learning to read can be very difficult for children. It is important that the steps are small enough to ensure success. Many early reading children’s books immediately cover all short and long vowel sounds together, which is very confusing for first time readers. Through my research, I have found that it is very important to introduce the vowel sounds one at a time. Since there are so many first time reading books that blend too many words with too many vowel sounds together this can be frustrating for children and sometimes makes them want to shut down and give up. Therefore, I created these books so that children can build their confidence when reading. Each book focuses on a particular vowel sound and starts out with simple words for success. First, practice the focus words with your child that are in each book. Next, each book is meant to be read by the parent to the child, then together, and eventually let the child try on their own. When reading the books, point to each word and each sound as you read it. Then, work on blending the sounds as you point to each sound with the child. Continue practicing the focus words in each book and reading to and with your child. Since each book focuses on one vowel sound, it helps them to succeed in building their reading skills by working on one book and therefore one vowel sound at a time. As your child builds confidence in one book, they can move to the next.

Happy reading!