Native American Baskets (Compass Point Phonics Readers)

Children's Literature

Each of the titles in this series follows a standard format. After the table of contents page there is a letter directed to parents or caregivers. It explains the purpose of these early readers which is to teach specific phonic sound and words that kids would normally encounter. The opposing page contains a Mother Goose rhyme, many of which will be known, but some may be more obscure and difficult for kids to relate to, but they do contain the phonic sounds emphasized in the book. The simple text is printed in large type and most of the page is filled with a crisp, clear colorful photograph. The books are available in three levels (A, B, and C) and the complexity increases as you move along in the alphabet with longer sentences, multi-syllabic words and a decrease in rebus support. At the end of each title there is a word list, game that reinforces the learning objective (instructions provided), and a very short bibliography of at least three age appropriate and fairly recent titles that complement and or expand on the focus of the text. There is also an index. The subject of this book is unusual and will bring some new information to most young readers. It discusses the development of baskets by Native Americans and shows the great variety of materials and styles. Many of them are true works of art, which is noted on the final page showing baskets in a museum display. Part of the "Compass Point Phonics Readers" series, Set C. 2004, Compass Point, Ages 6 to 7.
—Marilyn Courtot