As a child growing up in the 70s and 80s, my journey to becoming an avid reader was profoundly influenced by the pioneering work of Steve Jackson and Ian Livingstone. Their “Choose Your Own Adventure” books were not just stories; they were interactive experiences that captivated my imagination and transformed my reading habits. For someone who struggled with dyslexia, these books were a gateway into a world where reading was not a chore, but an adventure.
Steve Jackson and Ian Livingstone brought a revolutionary concept to children’s literature. Their “Fighting Fantasy” series, with its innovative format and compelling narratives, allowed readers to become part of the story, making choices that directly influenced the plot’s outcome. This interactive element was a game-changer for many children like me, who found traditional reading challenging and often frustrating. The brilliance of their work lay not only in the engaging plots and fantastical worlds but also in the way they empowered young readers. The sense of control and involvement in the story gave us a reason to keep turning the pages.
Inspired by this legacy, the Monster Phonics Team has developed the Flying Ahead series, which includes two “Choose Your Own Adventure” books as part of the collection. These books are designed to bridge the gap between decodable readers and free reading, aiming to boost children’s reading stamina and confidence. In these stories, young readers navigate a thrilling world of superheroes and villains, making choices that determine the fate of the characters and the outcome of the adventures.
We are always interested to hear what turned some of you on to reading.
We would genuinely love to know as we are always hunting for ideas as we develop our Flying Ahead collection.