Pebbles on the Beach – A Beautiful Story

Introduction

Pebbles on the Beach is a book from the Oxford Dominoes series. It is a Quick Starter level book, so it is good for beginner English learners (CEFR A1). The story is about a teenage girl named Abby. She spends her summer with her Aunt May in California. During the summer, she makes new friends and learns important life lessons. But one night, something terrible happens—there is an oil spill on the beach! This changes everything.

Who is Abby?

Abby is a teenager. She does not talk much to her parents. Her father works a lot for an oil company. Her mother does not like Abby’s friends. Abby feels lonely at home. She does not feel happy.

A Summer with Aunt May

One summer, Abby goes to California. She stays with her crazy Aunt May. Aunt May is not really crazy, but she is different! She is funny, happy, and free. She teaches Abby new things about life. Abby meets two new friends—Diego and Bianca. They live near Aunt May. They are kind and friendly.

A Beautiful Beach

Abby, Diego, and Bianca love the beach. The beach is clean and beautiful. They walk on the sand, swim in the sea, and collect pebbles. They feel happy and free.

A Big Problem – The Oil Spill

One night, something bad happens. There is an oil spill on the beach! Oil from the sea covers the sand and the water. Birds and fish are in danger. The beach is dirty and black. Everyone is sad. Abby and her friends want to help.

Working Together

People in the town work together to clean the beach. Abby, Diego, and Bianca help too. They clean the sand, save animals, and work very hard. Abby learns something important—working together can make a big difference.

Abby Changes

After the summer, Abby is not the same. She understands more about the world. She knows that she can help people and nature. She also feels closer to her family. She talks to her parents more. She is stronger and happier.

Why Read Pebbles on the Beach?

This book is good for beginner English learners. The story is simple, but it teaches important lessons:

• Family is important – Abby learns to understand her parents.
• Friends can change your life – Diego and Bianca help Abby see the world differently.
• We must help nature – The oil spill is a big problem, but people work together to help.
• Change is possible – Abby changes a lot in the story. We can change too!

Conclusion

Pebbles on the Beach is a beautiful story about family, friendship, and helping the environment. It is easy to read and perfect for A1 English learners. If you want a short but meaningful book, this is a great choice!

Alex Raynham author, editor and artist 

Alex Raynham: A Mastermind Behind ELT Materials and Graded Readers

Alex Raynham is a name that resonates strongly in the world of English Language Teaching (ELT) and educational publishing. With a rich portfolio of work spanning multiple publishers and markets, Alex has dedicated his career to crafting engaging and effective learning materials for students of all ages. His contributions to ELT, from graded readers to comprehensive coursebooks, showcase his expertise and passion for education.

A Prolific Writer in ELT Publishing

Over the years, Alex Raynham has established himself as a versatile and prolific writer. He has collaborated with some of the most renowned publishers in the field, including Oxford University Press, DEA Scuola, Macmillan, and York Press. His work encompasses a wide range of educational materials, such as:

• Graded Readers: Alex has written and adapted graded readers for different age groups, from mid-primary to upper-secondary students. These readers include original stories, adaptations of classic literature, and fact-based titles, all designed to make English learning accessible and enjoyable.

• Coursebooks: His two/three-level coursebook series, Goals, was specifically designed for Italian Biennio students and published by DEA Scuola in 2022/2023. This series reflects his ability to address specific curriculum needs while maintaining a focus on student engagement.

• Teacher’s Resources: Alex has authored Workbooks, Tests, and Teacher’s Books for Oxford University Press, as well as an insightful guide to teaching graded readers for Macmillan. These resources have provided educators with valuable tools to enhance their teaching methods.

A Commitment to Diverse Learning Needs

What sets Alex apart is his ability to cater to a diverse range of learners and educational settings. Whether it’s writing fact-based titles for young learners or adapting literary works for older students, he ensures that his materials are both pedagogically sound and engaging. His graded readers, for instance, strike the perfect balance between language development and storytelling, making them a favorite among students and teachers alike.

Innovating in Digital Education

In addition to traditional publishing, Alex has also ventured into online materials, reflecting his adaptability in an increasingly digital educational landscape. His online resources complement his printed works, offering interactive and multimedia-rich experiences that resonate with modern learners.

Educational Philosophy and Vision

Alex Raynham’s approach to ELT materials is rooted in a deep understanding of student needs and learning processes. He believes in creating content that not only teaches language but also inspires curiosity and critical thinking. His work is a testament to his commitment to making English learning an enjoyable journey, fostering both linguistic and intellectual growth.

Connecting with Alex Raynham

For those interested in exploring Alex’s extensive portfolio, his works are readily available on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and LinkedIn. His presence on social media, including Facebook, allows readers and educators to stay updated on his latest projects and insights.

Conclusion

Alex Raynham is more than just an author; he is a driving force in the ELT publishing world. His dedication to creating high-quality, impactful learning materials has touched the lives of countless students and teachers worldwide. As education continues to evolve, Alex remains at the forefront, shaping the future of English language learning with creativity, expertise, and a deep commitment to excellence.