Decodable Reader 35 The Big Race Written by Mark Bliss Illustrated by Dan Vick “She’s flying!” Mom said. “We’ve seen Sam try hard.” Phonics Skill Comparative Endings -er, -est hottest 80 taller tallest fastest It is the hottest day. The friends will run a race. 82 June, Slim, and Gus line up by size. Slim is taller than Gus. Gus is taller than June. 83 “I am the tallest,” said Slim. “But I am the fastest,” said Gus. “Wait for me,” said June. 84 “Let me help you,” said Gus. Gus used his trunk. He picks up June. 85 “Go fast, Gus! We can win this race,” June yells. 86 Gus runs up and down big hills. Gus and June run by Slim. 87 Decodable Reader 36 Where Is My Badge? Written by Erik Perez Illustrated by Sandra Martin The race is done. Can you tell who is faster? Phonics Skill Consonant /j/ -dge badge 88 Madge ledge edge