Learn how the brain is "wired" for reading from the perspective of our superstar friend, Billie the Brain (an introduction to Billie was published in 2023). Along the way, see the benefits of families reading together, from cuddly feelings and bonding in infancy, to language development, to learning letters, letter and word sounds, imagination and meaning. The main text is simple and rhyming, with anatomically accurate illustrations and fun and engaging facts anchored in neuroscience. Written by a pediatrician and pioneering expert in early literacy and brain development, this book is perfect to for families, educators and children to share and learn, including in STEM curricula. " Billie the Brain Learns to Read is a wonderful blend of science and storytelling, which takes readers on an engaging journey as this adorable brain is “wired” for reading. It is a book every family, teacher, and pediatric clinic should have on its shelf―a delightful reminder that reading with a child is one of the most powerful things we can do for their growing brain." ― Dr. Tzipi Horowitz Kraus, PhD, Developmental Cognitive Neuroscientist, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology & Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University “This educational, playful picture book follows Billie the Brain as she learns to read, each step accompanied by explanation of neurological changes. While appealing to children, technical information is useful for adults to support children in their lives. Grade: A” ― Publishers Weekly “Hutton’s cute rhymes paired with clear explanations of how language and literacy develop, plus Vagnoli’s cheerful, adorable illustrations result in a children’s book that will captivate both kids and adults - a treasure trove of useful information. Bright illustrations and simple rhymes deftly guide readers through complex concepts.” ― Kirkus Reviews “Author Dr. John Hutton and illustrator Gabriella Vagnoli have crafted a fascinating work that seeks to educate families, educators and advocates about the goings-on inside the growing brain. It is excellently placed to enable readers to comprehend the learning process more fully.” ― IndieReader (4.5 stars) Dr. John S. Hutton is an author whose work is inspired by experiences as a parent and grandparent, pediatrician, researcher and children's bookstore owner. His dad was a doctor, his mom a writer; he strives to honor both. He is among the world's leading experts in quantifying relationships between home reading and digital media ("screen time") environments on brain structure and function in preschool-age children using MRI, featured extensively in academic and news outlets. He works closely with reading advocacy groups on local and national levels, with a shared mission to reduce inequities in Gabriella Vagnoli is a Brazilian-Italian illustrator living in Seattle, WA. After obtaining a BFA in illustration from the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design in 2019, she has illustrated several chapter and picture books, including a 2022 IBPA Benjamin Franklin Silver Award recipient.