Phoebe Sounds It Out

“Phoebe is a little girl with a problem. At school, the children are practicing writing their names. “Sound it out,” their teacher coaches. But the sounds that Phoebe hears don’t look like the letters in her name! After some procrastination, (boots on, boots off) Phoebe bravely makes a go of it. Readers will feel Phoebe’s pride in her achievement, with her name perfectly sounded out and printed: Feeby. And they’ll see that it’s okay to make mistakes! The author has skillfully sketched the character. Phoebe’s feelings, worries, thoughts and actions are spot-on for a 5-year-old. Phoebe’s important adults are her mom, a single parent, and her much-loved Grammy, who we will see more of in future books. Teachers play an important supporting role. Simple, honest story with a nice touch of humour that acknowledges the challenge of learning to read and write. Think about it: fff = P?? eee = oe ?? Provides cues for readers about the sounds, and the way to print the letters. Acknowledges in an empowering way that it’s important to try, and that it’s okay to make mistakes. Text matched with adorable, expressive illustrations that feature not only an appealing (but not perfect) main character, but a multicultural mix of other kids. Readers (& parents & teachers) are going to love this little girl who overcomes her reservations and bravely tries new things, now in paperback.”–