Merriam-Webster's first dictionary includes illustrations by Ruth Heller and is perfect for students in grades K - 2. This book introduces young students to nearly 3, 000 words using 1, 000 entries, many new and revised with hundreds of fascinating examples. Features full sentences that are used to discuss definitions, common phrases, and usage examples in age-appropriate language to show how words are used in circumstances. Includes many entries like alternate meanings, word histories, related words, and the way words sound. Teaches basic dictionary skills like alphabetization, spelling, parts of speech, letter sounds, use of synonyms and antonyms, homographs and homophones jokes, riddles, poems and fun facts based on word play. dictionary makes learning fun and relates to popular stories, fairy tales, myths, and nursery rhymes which spark imagination and promote language expedition. Hardcover.