We have over 300 reference books for our children on various topics and still go to the library weekly for reading books. This book has remained on our shelves because it is so easy to reference. Unlike a dictionary, which is voluminous and printed in a font so small you can barely read it, this dictionary has just the words, listed alphabetically under it's correct spelling, as well as the most commonly misspelled version, so even the worst speller can find it by sounding it out. The font is easily read, about a size 12. The words are separated into syllables with the stressed syllable in bold, which is also very helpful with pronunciation. The pages are made of high quality paper and in color, which is easy on the eyes.

When our children first started school, we gave each a copy of this book and told them to add their own misspelled words when they couldn't find them in their book, so they'd have immediate access to them. They never needed to add any of their own words, because they were all already in the book. That's saying a lot.

I bought this for my 5th grader and he tells me it is much easier to use than a regular dictionary. I know that it is easier for me to get him to look up words he needed to spell than it was when he had only a dictionary.

I got this for my 6 year old daughter and it has given her so much independence in her writing homework. It has cut down on "mom, how do you spell....." It is an excellent reference for any child. Very easy to use. It's a great confidence builder too!