We Both Read-The Well-Mannered Monster (Pb)

Having a title designed for shared reading has greatly encouraged my budding reader. He really enjoyed being able to participate in reading a story that went beyond simple CVC, three word sentences on each page IE. The cat sat. But he wasn't quite secure in reading an "I can Read" book on his own yet felt like he should based on the "I Can Read" label. Enter the "We Both Read" titles. The pages designated for the budding reader were appropriate to his level. And knowing that he only had a page to read and then he could rest helped him as he overcame his trepidation at reading aloud. The book's alternating pattern helped to create a natural pause so he was truly ready to focus on reading when it was his turn again. It was a great confidence builder. We have a couple of titles including this one and plan to add others.

(We own several "We both read" books, and this review pertains to ALL of them...)This line of books is fantastic! My son still enjoys being read to, but also wants to read on his own (and sometimes gets 'bored' with the simpler story lines in the early readers). This is the perfect solution. The books have engaging storylines, but with simpler text on the pages that the kids read (exactly how simple depends on the level of the book--they range from "K-K1" to "2"). I've found them to be pretty accurate in terms of level--a level 1-2 is for a child reading at a high [...], beginning [...] level.I've noticed a great improvement in the amount of expression my son puts into reading since picking up these books. The more expression I put into my page, the more he puts into his--especially the 2nd and 3rd times through the books. It also seems to be something he's taking with him while reading other things now.We have quite a few of the level 1 and level 1-2 books--they are longer in length (seem to average about 40 pages, so 20 for the adult and 20 for the child) and might be frustrating for kids that aren't used to reading that much in one sitting--however, the pictures and text are engaging enough that my son didn't *want* to stop reading. I'd highly recommend going to the "we both read" website and glancing through the books to determine which level is best for your child--and also which subject matter. My son perfers fiction to non-fiction any day of the week :) At this point, it's just about getting him to read, so I'm not going to force the issue.One last note, the illustrations are great (vibrant colors--and the kids can pick up visual clues for times when they stumble with the words) and the books are printed on durable paper--these are great quality, especially for the price. I can't believe more people don't know about these books--I think they would benefit so many young readers! My son adores them, too, and requests at *least* one of these books every night before bed and often brings me one or two throughout the day. Books we *both* enjoy--what a concept :)

What a sweet book and a wonderful message. We enjoy reading it together and the monster is a great role model. This is a great book for my struggling reader and a way to gently help her.

Every book in this series is a winner and this one is no exception. Cute story and beginning readers love chiming in.

I love this series of books, and so do my sons. I bought this for my 6 year old, who is going into first grade this fall. The reading level on this is just right for him. I have noticed his reading improving, and also his confidence. It was always a struggle to get him to read a book to me, but he will happily share reading duties with me, so its a good way to get him to practice. This is his favorite story of the ones I have bought him, we read it over and over again. My 4 year old also loves it, and asks me to read the whole thing to him. Nice story, cute illustrations, and I love the concept. If I had any complaint, it is a little too long, but I can't really complain at my son happily reading a long book.

I love these books. Wonderful for kindergartners & kids learning to read or point out sight words.

I love love love these! I bought 3 titles - and we are 1/2 way thru the first book - "The Well Mannered Monster" and I'm totally impressed. My daughter is struggling with reading so these books are perfect for us. I start the story, and she participates, but isn't overwhelmed, because we take turns. What an awesome idea. She is engaged in the story and looks forward to her turn. Like I said, I don't want her to get frustrated, so we are taking our time and enjoying reading it - we each read about 3 pages each - each night. Completely worth it, and a great way to read "with" your child.

As a special services director at a small Catholic school, I am always looking for books that give students success in reading. This series has been a favorite for myself and the teachers on staff. Works really well both at school and home.