How Rocket Learned to Read by Tad Hills

Rocket is an adorable little white dog with black spots. He loves chasing leaves, chewing sticks and napping under his favorite tree.  One day his nap is interrupted  by a tiny yellow bird who welcomes him to school as her first student.  The little dog does not want to be anyone’s student. But the little yellow bird doesn’t give up. Each day she returns convinced Rocket join her.  She hangs an alphabet banner from the tree. She reads a story, stopping just as she reaches the good part.  Rocket can’t help but be curious.  Eventually, Rocket becomes her student and together they have a great time using the alphabet to spell out the things in Rocket’s world.  Rocket is disappointed when winter comes and the little bird must leave.  But he doesn’t stop learning. He spends the winter practicing spelling everything he sees.  And when she returns in spring he greets her with joy, ready to learn more.  The illustrations are a combination of oil and colored pencil.  They show all the different moods of Rocket as he moves from being a reluctant to student to an eager one.  Both adults and children will enjoy this light carefree book about learning.

Recommended for ages 4-8.

Mrs. Archer’s rating: 4 of 5