Singing Sam (Step into Reading) - Softcover

Bulla, Clyde Robert

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0394819772 ISBN 13: 9780394819778

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers, 1989

Synopsis

Illus. in full color. Sam, a frisky puppy, runs away from his disinterested owner. But when Sam turns out to have hidden talents, the spoiled boy wants Sam back.

About this title

From the Back Cover

"A story on a second-grade reading level that incorporates a lot of subtlety in its simple text--not surprising from Bulla, a master of this particular feat. The telling dialogue and carefully chosen actions reveal a great deal about the characters."--Kirkus.

From the Inside Flap

ll color. Sam, a frisky puppy, runs away from his disinterested owner. But when Sam turns out to have hidden talents, the spoiled boy wants Sam back.

Reviews

Grade 2-3-- Rob is never satisfied with his toys or pets, always wishing for something else. When he doesn't take care of his dog, Sam, the dog runs away. Amy finds Sam, and loves and cares for him. She discovers that he can sing, and once the singing dog appears on a local television show, Rob shows up to reclaim "his dog." In the happily-ever-after ending, Amy and the dog end up together. This simple, easy-to-read story is not didactic, but it does show Rob to be a selfish, spoiled child while Amy is a loving owner of her new pet. The illustrations are realistically drawn and give visual clues for comprehension. They do not amplify the text, but are more reflective in nature. Many libraries have a need for more read-alone titles for older primary-aged readers, and this offering will be a suitable addition. --Sharron McElmeel, Cedar Rapids Community Schools, IA
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Rob's house is littered with toys and pets he's used, abused and tired of. His dog Sam is no exception. One day, when lonely Sam takes a hike, he finds a home with kind-hearted Amy, who adores him. Rob decides to trade Sam in on a pony and lets Amy have the dog. That is the beginning of a new friendship: when Amy plays piano, Sam howls charmingly and soon the two of them are performing duets on television. But Rob spots Sam on TV and demands his talented dog back. In the end, Rob can't make Sam sing, for the dog is just too miserable with the selfish boy. Lots of colorful illustrations and a lively story make this story a winner for readers in the early primary grades; it teaches several valuable lessons in one entertaining work. Ages 6-8.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
• Publication date: 1989
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0394819772
• ISBN 13: 9780394819778
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 48