001 - The Ugly Duckling

This enchanting collection of stories originated from a series of reading lessons designed for first graders in the Santa Rosa public schools. The lessons aimed to achieve three goals to provide engaging reading material for young learners with limited vocabulary, to introduce them to legendary heroes from songs and stories, and to inspire a lifelong love for literature. As various tales were shared, lively discussions followed, culminating in the children presenting the stories in their own words. Notes were taken on their unique expressions and points of interest. Eventually, the stories were either written on the blackboard or mimeographed for the kids to read. I hope these delightful stories captivate other young readers just as they did those who helped create them. - Summary by E. Louise Smythe