Teaching Early Reading and Phonics

I think these authors have done a splendid job and have managed to produce a book that speaks persuasively, directly and clearly to fellow researchers/academics and teachers. It is a fabulous up-to-date critical analysis of current literature on which excellent ideas for practice and policy are grounded. Personally, I think the emphasis these authors place on the learning and care of the very youngest children is particularly fresh – not enough analysis or conceptualising is happening in this area and these authors, especially Kathy Goouch, have been pioneering in this regard. This book will therefore encourage that line of inquiry and support developments in practice. I also think it will be an invaluable resource for fellow researchers, doctoral students and those tasked with shaping policy on literacy, especially in England where new thinking is overdue in the policy field. I hope it proves to be required reading for diverse groups: academics (especially those in childhood studies and teacher education) practitioners and policy makers. I will certainly be recommending it to my colleagues and students.

-- Professor Kathy