Phonobet

Kathy Weeden (text) and Kim Drane (illustrator), Phonobet, National Library of Australia, June 2023, 40 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781922507471

Who knew there are more sounds in reading then just the 26-letter alphabet! The Phonobet book will teach young children the alphabet twin – something we all use when wagging [our] chin!

Kathy Weeden has written a phenomenal literacy book that has made learning different sounds used in the English language easy to understand and apply. Through fun rhymes and patterns, younger readers are able to follow through each page with ease. Weeden’s use of imaginative word play, specifically the metaphors and similes brings each set of phonemes to life.

Not only were the words fun and creatively used, Kim Drane includes bright blocky images which perfectly match Weeden’s amusing words. Through pops of vibrant colours and emotive characters, young readers will come to learn English phonemes with ease. With hilarious portrayals of people, animals, and objects, it’s easy to be immersed in discovering hidden surprises on each page.

As an adult, I never knew there were so many phonemes, and I am glad I came across this book. I had so much fun learning about the different sounds and seeing the explosions of colours on each page. I especially enjoyed reading more about phonemes towards the end of the picture book which gave more depth and information about exploring your voice – something that young readers could definitely have a play with!

Reviewed by Anna Tran

Scroll to Top