The New Jersey Reader is an attractively illustrated and inviting little book, created in the style of early American schoolhouse primers. As such, it is certainly true to form. Its small size, and engaging format of illustrations, poems, stories, history, (and even a play) is a delightful introduction to New Jersey standard 4th grade curriculum. We have, however, come a long way from colonial primers. In this day and age, the lack of a bibliography, source materials, or author's notes is a surprising and noteworthy omission. It mars an otherwise charming book. ( )