Go and Get with Rex
Jack, Jill, and a little dog named Rex play a fun game together called “Go and Get.” After a quick countdown, the trio are off to quickly find something that starts with a specific letter of the alphabet. While Jack and Jill find items that seem to be the perfect fit for each announced letter, Rex is a bit more creative with his selections. While “Duck” doesn’t start with the letter “F,” Rex points out that “Friend” sure does! Readers will like joining in the fun and going to get their own items to share. Trust Rex: When searching for something that starts with the letter “W,” he will be sure to bring you this book. It’s a Winner!
Pennsylvania Center for the Book Awards
Book Activities & Discussion Ideas
Before reading, warm up by singing the alphabet song—especially helpful for children still learning letter names and sounds.
After the story, invite children to play their own “Go and Get” game using familiar letters, such as the first letter of their names. Prepare by creating letter cards and collecting small objects. Hold up a letter, say its name and sound, then say, “Go and get something that starts with (specific letter)… one, two, three!”
Another option: gather alphabet books from the library. Let each child choose one and look through it. Then hold up a letter card and say, “Point to something in your book that starts with (specific letter)… one, two, three!” Children can take turns naming what they found.
Learning the alphabet is a big milestone! This book uses S, M, F, and D—great letters to start with, as they’re easy to recognize and pronounce. Families can create their own alphabet cards and look for everyday items starting with those letters (e.g., soap, flashlight, dish).
This game can also be adapted for younger children using other categories. Try:
- “Pick up a toy with wheels… one, two, three!”
- “Eat something red… one, two, three!”
Games like this make learning fun and help build vocabulary and letter recognition naturally through play.