The unique Step Into Reading series offers books at five carefully developed skill levels, tailor-made for the emergent reader. Promoting fluency and providing quality content, Step into Reading has been trusted by educators for over 30 years and is the perfect resource for integrating science, social studies, and math.
Step Into Reading nonfiction readers are essential for implementing the Common Core State Standards and they are now categorized in the following ways: Biography, History, Science, Sports, and General Nonfiction.
The program also offers fiction favorites, and includes popular characters such as the Cat in the Hat and Rocket who will excite even your most reluctant readers. You will also find the Fountas & Pinnell Guided Reading Level on the back covers in order to further help you select the right book for each reader.
Remember, a lifetime love of reading starts with a single step!
Explore the Steps
Preschool–Kindergarten
For children who know the alphabet and are eager to begin reading.
- Big type and easy words
- Rhyme and rhythm
- Picture clues
Preschool–Grade 1
For children who recognize familiar words and sound out new words with help.
- Basic vocabulary
- Short sentences
- Simple stories
Grades 1-3
For children who are ready to read on their own.
- Engaging characters
- Easy-to-follow plots
- Popular topics
Grades 2–3
For newly independent readers who read simple sentences with confidence.
- Challenging vocabulary
- Short paragraphs
- Exciting stories
Grades 2–4
For children who want to take the plunge into chapter books but still like colorful pictures.
- Chapters
- Longer paragraphs
- Full-color art
Guides by Step
Teaching Ideas

Alice in Wonderland is often a child’s introduction to stories with fantastical elements. Have students revisit the text and sort the following words or phrases into realistic or fantastical: Alice, bluebird, butterfly, cat, White Rabbit, pocket watch, tree, the hole beneath it, forest, rabbit’s house, rabbit’s cookies, dodo bird, carrot, talking flowers, Mad Hatter, March Hare, cake under a hat, talking cat, castle garden, Queen.