This is absolutely my favorite time of year, you guys. I mean, really: Is there anything better than a cool October evening, crimson and ochre leaves skittering down the street, a mug of hot tea or cocoa, and a book to get utterly absorbed in?

My wish for everyone is that they have the opportunity to get as passionately engaged in fall reading (and in anytime reading!) as I always have. That’s why I was so thrilled to write the twelve My Reading Neighborhood books (cover pictured) for our fall 2013 publishing season. These books are aimed at beginning readers, and I believe that it is critical to give kids the chance to fall in love with reading when they’re young.

The stories in these books come straight from my own childhood. Putting on neighborhood pet shows, going to block parties, and reveling in the first snowfall of the season were all things I loved to do as a kid. I hope these tales about simple childhood experiences will appeal to young readers in the same way that they would have appealed to me.

Each My Reading Neighborhood title integrates Dolch Sight Words as well as High-Frequency Words. In addition, you’ll find activities that support the CCSS, including fun questions to ask young readers that prompt them to cite evidence from the text. By combining playful storylines, beautiful pictures, and features that support today’s curriculum, I sincerely hope that my colleagues and I have provided you and your students with books that inspire a passion for reading.