Dick and Jane: Fun with Dick and Jane

These books, first published in the 1930's, are nostolgic, charming and sweetly illustrated. They're a great little piece of history both parents and children can enjoy. However, it should be noted that the current publisher, Grosset & Dunlap, has publicly stated that these titles are offered for their entertainment value only and shouldn't be used as teaching tools. The language used in the D & J series, with its oft-repeated, simple words, was part of the "whole-word" approach to teaching reading, which was pilloried in "Why Johnny Can't Read." And indeed, decades of research have shown that phonics is the approach that works. It is with good reason that California abandoned "whole-word" teaching methods early on and current federal standards specifically require a phonic-based curriculum. So buy, read and enjoy, but when your child needs a leg-up with his/her reading, turn to phonics instead.

Repetition is a basic learning strategy for younger children. "Oh look. Look. Look." Phrases like this are often used in this book. Older children and adults find this style funny but this repetition is very helpful for beginning readers and struggling readers. It is a joy to see children gain confidence practicing their words with stories that offer clean, innocent fun. We need more of these kinds of stories for children.

These books are so plain and simple, many parents will write them off, thinking there will not be enough pizazz to entertain their children. But what so many parents forget, is although it may not entertain adults, children do not need much. The simple phrases and illustrations leave so much to the imagination. Children without imaginations will not appreciate these. What child does not have an imagination? Exactly my point. They all do, and a simple book like this allows them to utilize it. DOn't deprive your child of the simple pleasures that we grew up with. Simple pleasures are more difficult to obtain these days, with so many affordable toys and games, and easy access to them all. This book is actually a gift that your child will treasure.

I bought this book for my daughter who was getting comfortable with reading beginner phonics books and was ready for that next step. WOW! She really loves reading this book, over and over again. Some beginner books really aren't beginner books because they don't offer the kind of repetition of words that help a child build confidence in their ability to read by themselves. Not so with this book....I'm going to order more Dick and Jane books!

I loved these books when I was a child. I had severe problems at home but these books were an escape from bad thoughts. Today, I think we spend too much time reminding children of how terrible things are instead of giving them a look at hopeful, happy situations. Some problem books are good and I wish there had been more of that when I was a child. I'm just saying we overdo the bad stuff.Another good thing about these books is teaching sight words. Phonics are important but so are sight words. For modern happy stories with sight words, use Betsy Lee's Dolch sight word books such as Albert, the Apple Eating Appaloosa.I also recommend books by MisterRogers (Fred Rogers) and his TV show.