According to the author, a remarkable 40% of children have difficulty learning to read. The main problem, says Blank, is that most methods only cover one or two of the six essential reading skills, which make up her Phonics Plus Five system—rest assured, however, this is no flash-in-the-pan quick fix, Blank has over 40 years of experience in child psychology. After discussing the causes of the failures, she outlines the six skills of reading—sequencing (letter order), writing (letter creation), phonology (sounds), semantics (meanings), syntax (grammar) and text (books)—and offers in-depth treatment for each one. She maintains an even, simple tone throughout, encouraging readers to see the process through a child’s eye—with countless fun activities, word lists, sample content and pictures.

An invaluable resource for all child educators. --2005 Kirkus Reviews