First Dictionary

-- Over 2,500 carefully chosen words are explained in clear, simple English -- Illustrated with lively pictures and photographs -- Spelling tips, writing ideas, word games and puzzles give ample help

K-Gr 3--An ambitious but flawed attempt to compile over 2500 words that are relevant to a young child's world; provide definitions, spelling, usage, and pronunciation; and nurture an interest in language. Well-written introductory material masterfully instructs readers in the fundamentals of dictionary use. Intriguing alphabet and word games, riddles, and exercises in the placement of words within story context stimulate the application and refinement of these vital skills. The alphabetically arranged main entries appear in large, bold type. However, their content has been illogically structured. Each word is followed by a listing of its different forms to facilitate spelling and writing efforts. Unfortunately, syllabication and parts of speech are not indicated. Pronunciation guides for individual words are inconsistently offered. The one-dimensional definitions are written in an unpolished, conversational style. Explanations are oversimplified to the point of ambiguity and often omit shades of meaning. For example, definition of "cross" omits its religious significance. The sample sentences that use the words in correct context are serviceable, but are not reliably included throughout the presentation. Finally, the cramped arrangement of three narrow columns per page is unappealing. The impact of the entries is weakened by a misplaced series of mediocre color pictures and photos that interrupt and overlap their corresponding and neighboring definitions and create uneven lines of text that are difficult to follow. The American Heritage First Dictionary (Houghton, 1997) is a better tool for the younger set. Easy-to-read definitions, excellent sample illustrations, and high-quality pictures and photos are a part of its user-friendly bill of fare.

Hillary Jan Donitz-Goldstein, New York Public Library

Copyright 1998 Cahners Business Information, Inc.