Star Boy’s Surprise: Band 08/Purple (Collins Big Cat)

Collins Big Cat is a guided reading series for ages 4–11 edited by Cliff Moon. Top children’s authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that your children will love to read, banded to help you choose the right book for every child. Practical ideas for guided reading are included at the back of each book.

Far, far away, in deep, dark space, was a star. From far way, that star was just a tiny twinkle. But it was Star Boy’s home. Star Boy lived there all alone, with only his robot, Ace, for company. And although Ace was fun to play with, he was just a robot. For his birthday, all Star Boy wanted was a surprise – but how could a robot think of a surprise?

This deceptively simple science fiction story explores ideas of friendship and understanding.

The storyboard on pp 14-15 offers children the opportunity to recap and retell the story in their own words.

Ideas for Guided Reading in the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.

• Series editor Cliff Moon is an acknowledged expert in teaching reading, with decades of experience, well known and trusted by teachers.

• Collins has commissioned top children’s authors and illustrators to create guided reading books that children will love to read.

• Highly stimulating illustrations in a variety of styles, from cartoon to photographs, are designed to engage young readers’ interest and imagination.

• The highly visual books support developing literacy skills and provide a wealth of speaking and listening opportunities

• Easily accessible teaching notes at your fingertips are included at the back of every reading book to support classroom management.

• Special pages are provided at the end of the story to help teachers recap, check understanding and move on.