The Lion and the Mouse

This gem of a book is my favorite at this level in the Step-Into-Reading series. With simple wording -- perfect for a preschooler or a child learning to read -- The Lion and the Mouse, captures the main elements of the traditional fable. It is a story for which the expression 'sure to delight young and old alike' truly fits. Many books for beginning readers lack substance and can make reading boring. However, this meaningful story gives children an opportunity to not only be successful in reading, but to experience the joy of reading. You can't go wrong in choosing this one!

This book retells the classic Aesop story of the lion and the mouse. And though it was written with children who are just beginning to read in mind, it would be suitable for younger children -- babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and some kindergärtners-- as well. In the story, a sleepy (and full) lion catches a tiny mouse. The mouse begs to be let go, promising that one day he will return the favor. The lion finds this humorous, but lets the mouse go. Then as fate would have it, one day the mouse does get to return the favor when he frees the lion from a hunter's net. The publisher notes that their Step 1 readers are "[F]or children who know the alphabet and are eager to begin reading." To that end, I believe you will find this an excellent and satisfactory book. Five Stars. This book has very few words in LARGE print. Very nice artwork: the color runs from page edge to page edge. Okay Read-aloud. Suitable for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and any child learning to read their first book. Note: Some of the words are more difficult than you would find in most primers, but because there are so few of them, children will memorize them in short order, and they should soon be able to gain a real sense of accomplishment. Pam T~ mom and reviewer at BooksForKids dotcom

Big lion . . . Little mouse . . . Big, big trouble. Provides emerging readers with immediate success.

When my daughter was two, this was one of her favorites, alas; she is now three and has put this aside. However, my one year old now likes the book, perhaps it's the way I read it to her. I have caught my older daughter "reading" this book to her sister. This is a good first reader, simple repetitive words.

My 4 year old daughter really loves this book. I read it to her almost ever night. The words are easy for her to read and understand.