Story Samplers are book-based thematic approaches to reading designed to engage children in the book experience. Each Story Sampler includes hands-on, cross-curricular activities for books linked by a common theme.

Each section of the Story Sampler includes a featured book plus additional titles and resources. The standard elements in the Story Sampler include:

• Questions to ask
• Things to do
• Family involvement
• Community connections

Some Story Samplers are age specific, but most can be adapted to a broad range of ages. Story Samplers can be used within, or as a supplement to, a curriculum or an after-school program. They can be part of reading challenges, reading weeks, and family involvement events.