The Magic Beans

by Margaret Hillert, Mel Pekarsky (Illustrator)

This collection features 96 books to give primary students varied book choices in a wide range of reading levels. Many of the books by well-known author, poet, and former first grade teacher Margaret Hillert. The series is divided in to four child-centered collections. Reading levels 1.1-1.2.

Genres: Picture Books, Fiction, Fairy Tales

28 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1950

About the author

Margaret Hillert has written over 80 books for children who are just learning to read. Her books have been translated into many languages and have helped children throughout the world learn to read. She first started writing poetry as a child and has continued to write for children and adults throughout her life. As a first grade teacher, Margaret realized that the books available for students just learning to read were beyond their comprehension. She then began to write her easy readers and poetry for children. Her first collection of poetry Farther Than Far was published in 1969. Her many awards include the Chicago Children's Reading Round Table Annual Award for outstanding contributions to the field of children's literature. Other honors include the David W. Longe Prize and the Michigan Bookwoman of the Year Award. A teacher for 34 years, she is now retired and lives in Michigan where she continues to write stories and poetry.

Reviews

[Paula · Rating 2 out of 5]

This “Fairy Tales and Folklore” title by Margaret Hillert retells the story of “Jack and the Beanstalk” for beginning readers. The condensed version will be confusing for youngsters unfamiliar with the original tale. The rigid vocabulary does not help the plot or flow of the story. However, the simple sentences and repetition are designed for beginning readers. The format and bright updated cartoon illustrations will appeal to the intended audience. The appended reading reinforcement activities that are a mainstay of Hillert titles serve to help parents, teachers or caregivers enrich the reading experience. The titles are more suited for beginning reading practice than actual introduction to classic fairy tales.

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Read and marvel, Goodreaders. With great technical skill, yet seemingly without breaking a sweat, master phonics instructor Margaret Hillert does what?

She manages to narrate the tale of "Jack and the Beanstalk" in just 44 words. Of course, the vivid illustrations help to take a way the need for additional words.

Even so, doing this must far harder than it looks, undoubtedly! A FIVE STAR marvel!!!!!

As kids are paying rapt attention to this wondrous tale, will they even notice how much practice they're getting phonologically and linguistically? Between all the practice with /s/ and the practice with /sn/, their developing competence is nothing to /sn/eeze at.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book reminded me so much of the "Ann and Nan" and "School Zone" books that I learned to read with, so it was a nice hit of nostalgia. Judging by its publication date, it's entirely possible I encountered this title in early childhood.

[Smoot M.L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on the story and very simple to read. Still captures the magic of the story of life's troubles and goodness. Beginners readers will find it easy to read and understand. Enjoyable book that you want to read over and over again.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

My children absolutely adore this book. Reading literature is so important to the development of a child's mind, and I cannot think of thing I would rather do then sit down to read to them in the evenings. Imagination and growth are so vital in those so young.

[Martha Alhieh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent addition to my classroom library. Important sight words are repeated over and over and we have had so much fun doing activities related to the book, such as word wall challenges and right word bingo.

[Monica Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great

[Courtney · Rating 2 out of 5]

This short, children's novel is a tale based off of Jack and the Bean Stalk. By reading this tale to my child, I realized something, the giant had every right to be angry with Jack for he was a thief.