A tale of friendship and exploration, perfect for children learning to read. By Julia Donaldson, author of The Gruffalo.

When Apollo the swallow flies to Africa, Chack the blackbird wants to send him a message. But Africa is far away. Can a jumpy dolphin, a grumpy camel, a greedy crocodile and a playful monkey help to deliver the message?

The Reading Ladder series helps children to enjoy learning to read. It features well-loved authors, classic characters and favourite topics, so that children will find something to excite and engage them in every title they pick up. It's the first step towards a lasting love of reading.

Level 2 Reading Ladder titles are perfect for readers who are growing in confidence and are beginning to enjoy longer stories.

Clear type

Up to 8 lines per page

Bright, appealing pictures for added interest

A variety of sentence structures

A wider range of vocabulary

Strong themes and characters to discuss

All Reading Ladder titles are developed with a leading literacy consultant, making them perfect for use in schools and for parents keen to support their children's reading.

Book band: Purple

Julia Donaldson, the 2011-2013 Children's Laureate, is the outrageously talented, prize-winning author of the world's most-loved picture books including The Gruffalo and What the Ladybird Heard. She lives in Glasgow with her husband and spends a lot of time touring the country doing readings ¿ and singing!

Martin Ursell has illustrated many books for children, including the award-winning Song of Pentecost by W J Corbett. He is a senior lecturer in illustration at Middlesex University.

Series consultant Nikki Gamble is the director of Just Imagine, a specialist resource and training centre for Primary English. She is Associate Consultant at the University of London, Institute of Education.