'Because I Can Read' is a favourite of parents and teachers who use this book to instill the pure love of reading and to illustrate the benefits which learning to read will bring. The "Write your own book" pages in the back of the book will encourage even the most reluctant children to become readers...and maybe even future authors 'Because I Can Read' has been described by an elementary school teacher as "The first book I have seen that shows kids why they should learn how to read". Quote from bathroom scene in 'Because I Can Read': "I can read the signs that tell me just where I need to go. I can read because there are lots of things that are really important to know" Characters are multiracial and inclusive, including a visually-impaired woman with guide-dog. Words and scenes (museum, school bus, street signs) explain concepts which will become familiar to pre-K and elementary school children: Example: 'Please do not touch' sign in a museum. What to do when you see a 'STOP' sign. The French version of this book is called, Parce-que je peux lire. It is recommended for those who are simple trying to learn French or

might be attending a French Immersion school or lyc e. The story's text is written in French, but words in the background remain in English...prompting bilingual discussions. For example: How do you say, "Please do not touch", in French?