Publisher Description

Perseverance (and a little help from a friend) pay off for an aspiring young gymnast in this winning entry in the I Like to Read series. Ella is in awe of Jan, the star of her gymnastics class. Jan can spin and leap on the balance beam. Can Ella? Her first attempt is a failure, and Ella is ready to give up. But Jan is a star at friendship too; and with her encouragement, Ella tries again--and succeeds! This is the perfect book for girls learning to read. The adorable, leotard-clad young gymnasts fill the pages with action; and the story offers valuable, age-appropriate lessons in kindness, sportsmanship, and how important it is to try, try again. An I Like to Read(R) book. Guided Reading Level D.

Author Biography

Marilyn Janovitz's books for young readers have been praised for their simplicity and warmth, and their ability to "reflect everyday activities with verve and joy." (Booklist review of Baby, Baby, Baby). She lives in New York City.

Review

"this charming tale of perseverance will have any beginning reader proclaiming, 'I did it.'"—Booklist
 
"The energetic, multicultural girls are lively and appealing, and the narrator's initial attempts at gymnastics nicely mirror a young reader's early efforts at reading, emphasize the necessity of perseverance and include the appropriate thank you. . . . This cheery selection will bring feelings of accomplishment and security to new readers and budding gymnasts alike."—Kirkus Reviews
 
"Pictures of jovial cartoonlike characters; large, simple text; and an encouraging message make this a solid offering for young girls just learning to read."—The Horn Book

Review Quote

"This cheery selection will bring feelings of accomplishment and security to new readers and budding gymnasts alike."

Details