The Extensive Reading Foundation

Congratulations to the publishers who have one or more finalists for the annual Language Learner Literature Awards! The purpose of the awards is to encourage even better graded reading material as well as to help establish “language learner literature” as a valid and authentic genre of literature.

Three anonymous judges in each of the six areas selected these Finalists. Now, teachers who have volunteered to read the books and share them with their students will send in their comments and votes by June 30, 2025. The “Winner” in each category will be announced in September of 2025 at the Seventh World Congress on Extensive Reading in Sapporo, Japan.

This retelling of the classic story, The Little Red Hen, is engaging for very young learners, as well as being appropriate for storytelling activities. The language is repeated and uses words the children probably already know. The illustrations are soft and support the flow of the story.

Based on Eric Carle’s delightful but wordless classic picture book, “1, 2, 3 to the Zoo!”, this is a new version of the original and has easy added text very young learners can understand. It is not more than a counting book, but it is a very good and enjoyable one.

Based on Eric Carle’s beautiful storybook, Friends, this book has the right language level for very young learners with repetitive patterns, unlike the original which would be too difficult for the typical EFL classroom. The theme of the story, placing importance on friendship, is heartwarming and important.

This is an inspiring and engaging picture book teaches kindness, bravery, and acceptance while aligning with climate change themes.The vivid illustrations enhance the storytelling, and the accessible language makes it easy for young readers to understand. A character introduction and font choice enrich the reading experience.

This story gently explores self-acceptance and overcoming insecurities. It is engaging and teaches the importance of understanding strengths and self-love. Vibrant illustrations, clear writing, and a touch of mystery will captivate young readers. The variety of fonts and font sizes is another plus point for this book.

This is a beautifully illustrated picture book with an engaging story for young learners that promotes environmental awareness, teamwork and standing up for what is right. With its clear, accessible language and vibrant artwork, it will be an excellent choice for both individual reading and lively classroom read-aloud sessions.

Treasure island is a black-and-white manga-style adaption of the classic Robert Louis Stevenson novel. It highlights the courageous adventures of a young Jim Hawkins who is looking for treasure. Simple language with short sentences and clear illustrations makes it suitable for beginner-level-students.

A 1912 short story by Peter Newell reimagined for modern LLL audience, with gorgeous illustrations and a diverse cast.

The Canteville Ghost story is an adaptation from an Oscar Wilde story. An American family buys a haunted mansion in England. All the previous tenants have moved away, afraid of the curse of the Canterville Ghost. Can an American family break the curse with their naive charm and goofy affability

It is a very touching story, easy to understand. I feel emational reading it. The cover of the book, the colorful illustrations, the summary written in red in each page, and the glossary really help novice readers to understand the story.The book explores themes of immigration, family, bullying, and friendship.

This non-fiction story describes life of Awá tribespeople in Amazon rainforest. Describes tribal life, their relationship with wildlife and then social activism to preserve their lands and way of life. Excellent photography and plentiful dossiers enrich the reading experience. Readers can feel the journey with Little Butterfly, exploring the vibrant beauty of nature , the tribe’s way of life, and the challenges they face.

The Drum is a touching and meaningful children’s story that addresses grief and healing through a mix of reality and magical story telling. The book includes comprehension and grammar exercises, and a theme song. Colorful illustrations help readers understand the story. Each sentence is beautifully crafted – one can tell a lot of thought went into each word. And it’s written intelligently, the words leap off the page into the reader’s imagination.

Drifting examines identity, belonging, and mental health through three intertwined narratives on environmental activism. It illustrates how minor decisions can lead to substantial change. By exploring complex relationships and self-acceptance, the author adeptly conveys characters’ emotions, enabling intermediate readers to deeply engage with the story.

This adaptation of George Orwell’s *1984* employs straightforward language and a brisk romantic subplot, making it accessible to language learners. The quote “The past was removed, then it was forgotten, and finally, the lie became the truth” emphasizes betrayal. Despite lacking illustrations, it effectively depicts the dystopian setting. Clear typography and simplified synonyms enhance comprehension, providing insights into the state’s manipulation of truth and history.

This edition of Romeo and Juliet simplifies Shakespeare’s language while preserving its poetic depth, making it ideal for intermediate learners. The editing enhances clarity, and the beautiful illustrations bring the story to life. Overall, it offers readers an accessible yet rich experience of the classic tale.

Meet nine extraordinary women who left their mark on the world and whose achievements echo in eternity. These are women from very different countries, ages, and backgrounds – from artists to astronauts – and the groundbreaking influence they have had on the lives of others. It is a must-read and highly recommended!

The heart-wrenching story of Harold, an ordinary, quiet man whose journey changes his life and dramatically influences the lives of others. You will undoubtedly have your own pilgrimage and see your own relationships differently. Rich details of his journey, various interesting characters, and meaningful life lessons are all packed inside.

This is about a girl, Valancy Stirling, who rebels against her strict family and (finally) speaks her mind. She makes several bold, unconventional decisions which must have been very rare in the early 1900s. The storyline is very interesting and easy-to-follow. Check out the chapter notes at the back, too!

Marc Helgesen, who followed Richard Day as the 2nd Chair of the ERF, passed away on 11 March 2025 after a protracted illness while hospitalized in Sendai. While the ERF remembers Marc’s leadership, his perspectives on Extensive Reading, his Language Learner Literature Award initiative and his stimulating talks, Marc has touched many others in various roles. Others remember him for his role in founding the Sendai Chapter of JALT, for his long-running series of texts in the “English Firsthand” series, his work on “The Science of Happiness” in education, his activity with the JALT “Brain SIG” and as barbeque chef for the Sendai teaching community.

Marc has always been concerned with education, having studied “Child Development” in high school and majoring in elementary ed/early childhood in college. At Southern Illinois University, he taught Adult Basic Education in a maximum security prison and taught ESL to Hispanics. He then moved on to Japan, and the rest is history. During his tenure at Miyagi Gakuin University, he published over 200 academic papers, books, and textbooks, while giving frequent talks both in Japan and abroad. He will be remembered!

Announcing the Finalists for the 2025 LLL Awards

Marc Helgesen, the 2nd ERF Chair, Passes Away

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