This picture book by Corey Bryan tells the heartwarming tale about a young boy’s struggle with learning phonics. Rudy is frustrated by the difficult time he is having perfecting the sounds and spellings of words, especially his favorite word ‘magic.’ When letters make multiple sounds it’s confusing, but thanks to his teacher and the gift his parents give him, he feels empowered to try again and again.

While he makes several mistakes, which he thoughtfully corrects for the reader, he’s determined to succeed. Rudy soon discovers that practice and asking questions are the only ways to develop his skills and make phonics his friend. The illustrations by Kass Whitaker are uplifting in their soft edges and pastel colors and heightens the charm of this educational, but sweet story.