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RENEE LONDNER was born in New Haven, Connecticut. After teaching elementary school for eleven years, Renee now works as an activities director for senior citizens. She loves to write stories and poetry, especially haiku. Unlike the character Ruby in the story, Renee can whistle but can’t blow bubbles with her gum. Renee lives in Somerset, New Jersey, with her husband.


LAURENT LINN was born in Dallas, Texas, and earned an MFA at Syracuse University. He worked on the hit children’s show "Sesame Street" as a puppet and costume designer, winning a Daytime Emmy Award for his work. Laurent is now a full-time illustrator. He lives in New York City with his calico cat, Audrey, who was the model for Ruby’s pet cat.


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.