Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Kim Peek

This book provides solid introductory information on how to prepare for and what to expect from spelling bees at the local and national levels.

The book follows 2004 National Spelling Bee contestant, Kendra Yoshinaga (the company's site says she's headed to the 2006 National Spelling Bee too!), and discusses what it took to prepare for the National Bee and all the qualifying Bees.

"The Spelling Bee and Me" opens with a poem about what it's like to watch a sibling compete and prepare. Next, Kendra's dad, who is also her coach, discusses practice methods. Kendra's mom shares the emotional perspective, and Kendra's 1st-3rd grade teacher (Gail Small) describes the methods she uses to each spelling in the classroom. Finally, Kendra tells us in her own words.

As of this posting, we are about one month away from the National Spelling Bee. The spelling bee movie, "Akeelah and the Bee," opens this weekend. I predict there will be a heightened interest in the National Bee this year (look for coverage of the final rounds on ESPN!).

For anyone interested in getting involved in this highly-competitive activity, "The Spelling Bee and Me" is a good primer.