MARY DIXON LAKE was born in New York City and currently works as a Reading Recovery® teacher in the New York public schools. She has written several children’s books and was inspired to write this one when she found a photo of her son at three years old, eating a peach and covered with juice. Mary lives in Bronx, New York, with her husband, their two children, and their cat Tiger.


AARON BOYD was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has wanted to illustrate children’s books since he was six years old. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. Aaron loves to play games and sports. He still lives in Milwaukee, with his three dogs to keep him company.

Download the Durazno jugoso Guided Reading Lesson Plan by clicking here

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.