4 out of 4 stars
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I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. Toni the Superhero excels at accomplishing its goal of inspiring confidence in young readers. Designed for beginner readers, the book is comprised of simple, easy-to-read sentences that the readers will be able to work through on their own or with limited help. Although Toni is a superhero, this book highlights the other tasks Toni enjoys doing, which makes the book more relatable for children readers. Perhaps they will see themselves jumping across tree stumps, racing around a track, or dancing with Toni and his friends and family. Furthermore, a superhero’s enjoyment of helping with tasks around the house may also encourage young children to see the value in helping their families with tasks around their own homes, like sweeping or helping their parents wash dirty dishes.
Toni the Superhero is beautifully illustrated, allowing the readers to fully immerse themselves in the book. Vibrant colors stretch from edge to edge, not leaving a single white space. Especially for new readers, detailed and engaging illustrations are crucial for two reasons. First, they provide contextual clues that will help readers work through each sentence. Second, given that the book intentionally has simple and few sentences to instill confidence in beginner readers, detailed and engaging illustrations add additional substance and entertainment for the children.
Since Toni the Superhero is part of a series, children will have the chance to continue to engage with Toni as he goes through life, witnessing his participation in both ordinary and superhero-related situations. This balance will allow readers to see themselves in Toni and, hopefully, see the superhero qualities in themselves as well.
I recommend this book for beginner readers who are still gaining confidence in their ability to read full sentences on their own. Throughout the series, they will slowly build their comfort level and foundation of reading before moving on to more challenging books and series.
Most importantly, this book will help spark a love of reading for young readers, which is the author’s main goal. Through simple sentences, engaging illustrations, and diversity in the types of activities Toni likes to do, this book is relatable to a wide range of beginner readers. Enjoyment of reading primarily stems from the confidence in the ability to read and understand a story, and Toni the Superhero is a wonderful way to spark that confidence and enjoyment in the young readers in your life.
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Toni the Superhero
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