Book 4

Percy and the Pirates

by Russell Punter

Published 1 January 2007
This title is part of four new titles in the fantastic "First Reading" series, aimed at children who are beginning to read. Luxurious hardback editions foster pride in book ownership and enthusiasm for reading. Each of these four exciting new stories is a classic story or fable, retold with simple text to delight and inspire any child who is just beginning to read. This key series was developed in conjunction with reading expert Allison Kelly from the University of Surrey, a reading specialist. Every title has clear and compelling text that allows children to build their burgeoning reading skills and is accompanied by charming and highly appealing illustrations.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

by Russell Punter

Published 1 September 2015
When Goldilocks stumbles on an empty cottage in the woods, she sits down to eat breakfast. But none of the three bowls of porridge on the table is quite right for her… A colourful, illustrated retelling of the classic children’s fairytale, specially written for children who are learning to read. Part of Level Four in the Usborne Reading Programmed, for children who are building reading stamina.

Androcles and The Lion

by Russell Punter

Published 26 December 2008

It's a hard life being a slave in Ancient Rome. So Androcles escapes to the forest – and comes face to face with a lion. But could the mighty beast and the runaway slave help each other out? Simply written in lively, flowing text, Usborne First Reading books are designed to capture the imagination and build the confidence of beginner readers. This book includes audio and links to downloadable worksheets and teacher's notes.

"Crack reading and make confident and enthusiastic readers with this fantastic reading programme." - Julia Eccleshare


The Inch Prince

by Russell Punter

Published 26 December 2008
This is a new title in the fantastic "First Reading" series, aimed at children who are beginning to read. When Mrs Ping's wish to have a child is granted by a passing fairy, she and her husband become the parents of a little boy who's just one inch tall. Issy, as they name him, doesn't grow any taller. But what he lacks in height, he makes up for in ambition. He goes to the Emperor and asks for a job. But is he up to the task of becoming a royal bodyguard? It is developed in consultation with Alison Kelly, who is a senior lecturer in education and an early reading specialist from Roehampton University. It is a great value quality hardback with ribbon marker guaranteed to foster pride in book ownership.

The Goose Girl

by Russell Punter

Published 1 May 2012
A beautifully illustrated retelling of the classic fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, retold with simple text for children just beginning to read. Rose may look like a humble goose girl – but she’s really a princess. Will she find a way to reveal the truth so she can marry her prince?

Tin Soldier

by Russell Punter

Published 1 February 2012
A charming retelling of the timeless classic by Hans Christian Andersen, retold with simple text for children just beginning to read. Tom is delighted when he receives a box of tin soldiers for his birthday. But he has no idea they come to life while he’s asleep! Attractive hardback book with ribbon marker. Developed in conjunction with reading experts from Roehampton University.

Dick Whittington

by Russell Punter

Published 26 September 2008
The classic English folktale retold with simple text for children just beginning to read. When Dick Whittington hears that the streets of London are paved with gold, he can’t wait to seek his fortune. But things don’t quite work out how he expects. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton.