Once Upon a Time
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Book Overview
A struggling young reader triumphs There is something worrying Sarie at school. Every time her teacher says, "Children, take out your reading books," Sarie feels sick. The letters in the book all run together, tripping her up so that she stumbles and falters, and the girls in the back always make fun of her. Only Sarie's old friend, Auntie Anna, seems to understand that letters and words can be difficult things to grasp. And it is Auntie Anna, with the help of a book from her own daughter's childhood, who makes a unique Sunday ritual out of giving Sarie the help she needs, until the letters that were once her adversaries begin to seem friendly just in time for Sarie to prove herself to the laughing girls at school. Niki Daly's illustrations set Sarie's tale under the vast and beautiful skies of the South African Karoo, and his encouraging story conveys the power and magic of a good book and the joy of having a good friend to share it with.
Format:Hardcover
Language:English
ISBN:0374356335
ISBN13:9780374356330
Release Date:March 2003
Publisher:Farrar Straus Giroux
Length:32 Pages
Weight:0.89 lbs.
Dimensions:0.3" x 10.7" x 10.4"
Age Range:4 to 8 years
Grade Range:Kindergarten to Grade 3
Customer Reviews
2 ratings
lovely book, a worthwhile buy
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
Set in South Africa in the desert, this lovely and familiar story of a child who has difficulty reading, is an enjoyable read with a message. The language and artwork are gentle and flowing, the message to keep trying and to be kind to others who are struggling, is predictable but important. It was an excellent bedtime read for my children who are 6 and 9 years old, we will buy it (it is on loan from the library).
A must have in every elementary classroom!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
I teach a children's literature class at a state university and a student shared this in class today. I was so moved by her retelling of the story and knew I must have it in my collection. Students who are struggling with reading will identify with the feelings of the main character and the relationship between the child and grandmother is magical. It reminds me of another must-have book, Thank You, Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco.
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