< Picture Books
BILLIE THE BRAIN learns to read
Learn how the brain is “wired” for reading from a superstar friend!
Written by a pediatrician and expert in early literacy and brain development, this robust picture book combines simple rhyming text, lively illustrations, anatomically accurate diagrams, facts about reading milestones and practices to help children succeed.
Along the way, see benefits of families reading together, from cuddly feelings and bonding in infancy, to concepts of print, language development, learning letters, letter and word sounds and meaning, fostering imagination and empathy. Diagrams of the functional reading network, a component skills growth chart including when to worry, and links to reading groups and resources are provided at the end.
This accessible, child-centered book is perfect to for educators, pediatricians, reading advocates, parents and children to share and learn, and ideal for STEM curricula, from kindergarten through graduate school.
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Publication Information
List Price: $9.99
ISBN: 979-8988638292
Publication Date: Fall 2025
Format: Trade Paperback Picture Book
Dimensions: 8 x 9 inches
Page Count: 40
Ages: 3-up
Grades: Pre K-up
Series: Your Body is Amazing! Companion to Billie the Brain (2023) and Hank the Heart
Buy Billie the Brain Learns to Read!
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You can also purchase this book online through the Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Indigo (Canada) buttons below.
We proudly work with Nonprofit Organizations across the country, as well! Special discounts apply for bulk orders, including tax-exempt status. Email us at Sales@bluemanateebooks.com to inquire about special pricing, presentations and brainy musings!
About the Authors:
Dr. John Hutton is a pediatrician, author and researcher at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center/Dallas Children’s Hospital. His pioneering work involves using MRI to help understand how reading and screen time impact early brain development. He is passionate about the power of books to bring grownups and children together. He is the winner of numerous awards, including Moonbeam, IPPY and Mom’s Choice Awards Gold Medals and a Benjamin Franklin Gold Medal.
About the Artist:
Gabriella Vagnoli is a Brazilian-Italian illustrator living in Seattle, WA. After obtaining a BFA in illustration from the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design in 2019, she has illustrated several chapter and picture books, including Billie the Brain (Moonbeam Gold Medalist) and a 2022 IBPA Benjamin Franklin Silver Award.