Book Review - The Snowman

Posted by
Lynn Moore
Jan 31, 2007

This month I am looking at great books for kids who struggle with reading. Many children with a disability struggle in this area. Often the early reader books that are plentiful through school book orders and in bookstores are appropriate choices. They offer books (fiction and nonfiction) on a variety of topics. Because they are short, high interest level pieces kid love them. The small number of words and how those words follow the pictures make them good skill-builders for the struggling reader.

Several versions of Raymond Briggs' book, The Snowman, are available for sale. There is a wordless version and a picture book version. For beginning readers, I recommend the Early STEP Into Reading version. The same delightful story of the snowman made by character James takes him on a flying trip around town, visits inside James' home, and at the end sadly melts.

Each page has no more than eight words. Important words are repeated in the book. The words of this book can be practiced with the following activities:

Make flashcards of the words.
Print one sentence from the book. Give your child flashcards of those words only and have him arrange the cards to match the sentence.
Ask your child to put three of the word flashcards in ABC order.
Give your child three slips of paper with one sentence from the book on each slip. Ask him to arrange them by first, next, and last order.

Are you interested in more ideas for struggling readers?

Today may you stay warm, and enjoy a good book with your developing reader . . .L.