First Reading This is a new title in the fantastic First Reading series, part of the Usborne Young Reading Programme, based on a tale from Chinese folklore, aimed at children who are beginning to read. Selfish Shen has too many pears to eat, but he refuses to share them. Even when a hungry beggar comes along, Shen won"t give away a single pear. Then a magic tree with enough pears for everyone begins to grow - and Shen"s pears mysteriously disappear. This title is developed in consultation with Alison Kelly, who is a senior lecturer in education and an early reading specialist from Roehampton University. This title is of a great value quality hardback with ribbon marker guaranteed to foster pride in book ownership.