Yoko Learns to Read by Rosemary Wells-ADVISABLE

Wells, Rosemary, Yoko Learns to Read. Disney Hyperion Books, 2012. pgs. 32. PICTURE BOOK

Yoko loves to read her family’s three books from Japan. When she goes to school, however, those three books only count for three book leaves. She feels like she’s falling behind everyone else. When Yoko’s mom goes to the teacher to find out she can help, she realizes that she can’t read any of the English books the teacher wants Yoko to read. At first, Yoko tries just making up a story, but her friends say that her telling the story isn’t reading it. When Yoko’s teacher helps her to start to learn the word in her books, Yoko realizes that there’s more than one way to read a good book.

A cute picture book for young children, especially if they’re learning to read. The text is simple. The pictures complement the story well. The story teaches a good lesson about reading. This book would make a great addition to any elementary school library or public one. PreK, EL (K-3). ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Jessica Moody, Library Media Specialist, Olympus Jr. High.