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BARBARA M. FLORES was born in Madera, California. She holds a Ph.D. in education from Arizona State University and is involved in many children’s literacy organizations including the International Reading Association and the California Association of Bilingual Educators. Barbara based this story on a trick she played on her younger sister when they were little. She lives in San Bernardino, California, with her daughter.


MICHAEL RAMIREZ was born in El Centro, California. He received a degree in art from San Diego State University and works full-time as an illustrator and designer. When he isn’t illustrating books for children, Michael enjoys creating and recording music. He lives in San Diego, California, with his wife, their son and their dog Kayla.



Guided Reading Guided reading levels were assigned by certified Reading Recovery® teachers and literacy experts using the guidelines identified in Guided Reading and Matching Books to Readers by Irene C. Fountas and Gay Su Pinnell (Heinemann).

Intervention Intervention levels were assigned by certified Reading Recovery® teachers and literacy experts and are intended for use in early intervention and one-on-one tutorial programs, including Reading Recovery® programs. These levels are not officially authorized by Reading Recovery®. Reading Recovery® is a registered servicemark of The Ohio State University.

DRA (Developmental Reading Assessment) The DRA levels were determined using information in the Developmental Reading Assessment Resource Guide by Joetta Beaver (Celebration Press).

All level placements may vary and are subject to revision. Teachers may adjust the assigned levels in accordance with their own evaluations.