Synopsis
Introduces the letters of the alphabet and simple words, including colors, numbers, compound words, and contractions, using Necco Sweethearts candies.
Janice DeLong - Children's Literature
"Necco Sweethearts" candies form both text and illustration for this multi-level concept book. Barbieri McGrath matches her rhyming lines with cutout replicas of the easily recognizable sweets to teach the letters of the alphabet, simple words, colors, numbers, compound words, and contractions. Familiar sight words are also explored. Pastel pages paint the background for this creative use of a familiar confection. Text for the adult is in black, but after a few sessions, small hands will want to hold the book and read letters and words that are inscribed on the colorful hearts. Along with learning to read, the young audience is led to discover the importance of vowels and the necessity of pairing up with consonants. Altogether, this addition to the library guarantees some tasty times with the beginning reader. 2003, Charlesbridge Publishing, Ages 4 to 6.