Decode with Us!: A Collection of 5 Short Vowel Phonics Readers Featuring Sam, Ted, Gus, and Friends

Build Confidence with Truly Decodable Stories Your Child Can Read from Start to Finish!Decode with Us! is a thoughtfully designed collection of five short vowel decodable books, created for beginning readers who are ready to start sounding out simple CVC (consonant-vowel-consonant) words. Rooted in the Science of Reading, this set supports early literacy with stories that are not only educational—but also fun, confidence-building, and truly decodable.Each book in this collection focuses on one short vowel sound (A, E, I, O, or U) and features engaging characters like Sam, Pat, Ted, Bob, Gus, and more. The stories are carefully structured with simple text on one page and a corresponding illustration on the opposite page—a layout that helps reduce distractions, supports decoding, and keeps kids focused on the words.This collected edition features five works, each of which is also available individually on Amazon.:Sam and Pat: Short A DecodableTed Has Ten Pets: Short E DecodableA Pig in a Wig: Short I DecodableA Job for Bob: Short O DecodableGus and His Nut: Short U DecodableWhat Makes This Set Special?Clean CVC focus—No blends or digraphs, just solid short vowel practiceOne short vowel per book—Clear progression for targeted phonics learningText and illustration layout—Words appear on one page, picture on the other, to reduce guessing and encourage true decodingEngaging storylines—Each book includes a beginning, middle, and endPlayful, supportive illustrations—Enhance comprehension without giving away the wordsMinimal “heart words”—Strategically selected high-frequency words to support natural storytellingPhonics-aligned character names—Reinforces the focus vowel in a fun, memorable wayInside Each Book You’ll Find:Short Vowel Introduction – Clear explanation of the focus vowel sound, along with a suggested hand gesture to reinforce phonemic awareness.CVC Word List – A complete list of all decodable CVC words used in the story for easy review and reinforcement.High-Frequency Word List – Includes the high-frequency (heart/sight) words found in the text to support comprehension.Total Word Count – Helpful for tracking progress and conducting running records.Comprehension Questions – Five targeted, story-specific questions to check understanding and support oral language development.Review Page – Combines picture and word matching to reinforce vocabulary and decoding skills.Directed Drawing Activity – A simple, step-by-step drawing of one focus word from the text—perfect for fine motor practice and vocabulary connection.Whether your reader is just starting their phonics journey or needs a boost in decoding skills, Decode with Us! offers the structured practice and joyful stories they need to grow. Read more