Josh                                                                         11% of story
Stage 2 - Beginning Reader

I live next door to the Zest family. I like to watch their dad, The Zesty Chef, on TV. He cooks good food. Kayley and Madison like to build things and I help. I like science, too. We make a good team!

Madison                                                                  14% of story
Stage 3 - Transitional Reader

My sister and I spend a lot of time in our garage workshop. We work on projects and figure them out together. We’re like science detectives. We follow the clues until we learn to make things work. Kayley figures it out most of the time, but she doesn’t act like she’s the boss. Our parents treat us the same too. We’re cooking up something new and I can’t wait to get started!

Zesty Chef                                                                        18% of story
Stage 4 - Intermediate Reader

I cook on my own TV show. I love to be in front of the camera and tell everyone about new ways to make delicious foods. I show people how to make good food choices. Like I always say, Fresh Food is Healthy Food! When you mix up the best ingredients, you’ll get the best tasting food – every time!

Kayley                                                                                    20% of story
Stage 4 - Intermediate Reader

My parents say I’m in a big hurry to grow up. Some think I’m special. I learned to read when I was just two years old and I’ve been busy reading and building things ever since. I made a working elevator for my playhouse when I was only four. I used the motor from my mom’s sewing machine – did I get into a lot of trouble for that! I’m older now and I always ask permission before I take things apart. My teachers say I’m good at making gadgets and gizmos. I like to find out how things work and make new things, don’t you?

BUD the Robo-Dog                            7% of story
Stage 5 - Advanced Reader

I am an amazing invention! I say some pretty interesting things and everyone around me wants to hear more. Some of the words I say are very long, but how I pronounce them isn’t important. I just do my best and everyone wants to hear what I have to say!

Narrator                                                                              30% of story
Stage 5 - Advanced Reader

As the narrator, I am the master storyteller! It's up to me to keep the story alive and interesting with each exciting detail. So, I must read everything with expression and excitement!