PreS-Gr 1— The ducklings and the dodos are gearing up for a rousing game of dodgeball—which is all in fun, so don't be mean! But while everyone seems to enjoy the gym class game, Chick sits in the corner with a book and reads. When asked to join, Chick simply says, "I prefer to read. No, thank you." The balls fly and smash benches, chairs, and the trophy shelf. As the rambunctious game continues, Chick carefully gathers the broken wood and builds a tiny book shelf loaded with books. After the game is over, Chick distribute books to everyone, even the coach. Stemple includes high frequency sight words: "Look!" exclaim several students in the class to their coach. Active play and quiet reading are equally praised in this early reader. VERDICT Encouraging the love of reading in newly independent readers without discounting the importance of physical fitness could be a difficult feat here, but this sweet volume accomplishes just that.— Jennifer Miskec