Seventy-seven pre-primer vocabulary words are used in this simple text about things one would see at a carnival. Two pages in the back of the book suggest activities to reinforce phonemic awareness, phonics, making words, shared reading and comprehension discussion. This is another good addition to the series to be enjoyed be beginning readers and used by teachers.
Book Buzz, December 2010
The Dear Dragon series has been around for over 30 years, and this new series of stories continues the formula of providing practice for the early reader. Each book focuses on allowing the reader to practice sight words in a controlled environment. The colorful illustrations support the text and allow the reader to expand on the story. The Dear Dragon series provides an opportunity for the library to support classroom reading instruction for its earliest readers.
Arlington Independent School District, June 2011
Dear Dragon goes along with a boy and his parents to a carnival. They ride on the rides, eat some yummy food, and have some fun. The colorful illustrations show the activities and serve as picture clue to the text. This book is best used in a shared reading experience. It includes notes to caregivers, a word list showing the 77 words used in the story, and reading activities for teachers and parents to use with a student to encourage discussion and develop literacy skills.
Tuscon Unified School District, March 2011
