The Three Bears

by Margaret Hillert

A simplified retelling of the beloved folktale uses vocabulary and is designed for beginning readers.

Genres: Childrens

28 pages, Paperback

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

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

You've told the story. I've told the story. Who among us hasn't told the story of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears?

But leave it to Margaret Hillert to tell this story -- brilliantly -- using just 46 words. Wow!

For example, remember the part when Goldilocks tries out the three chairs? Here's what you can read on Pages 16 and 17:

Here is something.
Red, yellow, and blue.
One is big. One is little.

Here is one for me.

The pictures, of course, show all three colorful chairs, with Goldilocks sitting in the one that fits "just right."

Hey, I don't know about you, Goodreaders, but this author and reviewer thinks the storytelling here was fabulous.

PEDAGOGICALLY SPEAKING

The main linguistic discovery here is the /s/ sound: So eSSential in EngliSh!

As a matter of fact, my rating will be Five Stars.

[Lauren]

An easy format retelling of the classic fairy tale, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and the girl's visit to the bears' house. Newly re-illustrated with a fresh and modern look, these Beginning-to-Read books foster independent reading and comprehension. Educator resources include reading reinforcement activities and a word list in the back. Activities focus on foundational, language and reading skills. The illustrations are truly colorful and hilarious.

[Smoot M.L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on the story The three bears 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. Pictures are inviting and colorful. Students will build confidence by reading the book.

[Marianna F. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the illustrations

[Paula · Rating 2 out of 5]

This “Fairy Tales and Folklore” title by Margaret Hillert retells the story of “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” for beginning readers. The classic tale has been reduced to bare bones. The limited vocabulary of this condensed version makes for a rather stilted read. However, new readers may still enjoy reading this edition if they are familiar with the original story. The simple sentences and repetition are especially 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.

[Courtney · Rating 5 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.

Merged review:

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.

[Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

After Cinderella, Goldilocks and the Three Bears is easily my six year old's next favorite fairy tale. We have a copy of Goldilocks but it is way over her 1st grade reading level.

This book is just right.

The vocabulary is stripped down to a first grade reading level but my daughter was quite happy that she could read one of her favorite stories all on her own. She also loved the art.

[Courtney · Rating 5 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.

[Cheryl · Rating 2 out of 5]

In an effort to make the book simple for early readers, the author has left out a lot of the story. I didn't care for it.

[Michelle Farella · Rating 2 out of 5]

For the earliest of readers... an no one else!

[Anderlynn Thrailkill]

B is bear week