Book excerpt: The next stage up from Zig Zags, Spirals is a series of reading books for slightly older children. The stories range from 300 to 500 words and are ideal for more competent readers, involving a more highly developed plot line. They are accompanied by bright, colourful pictures which will reassure the most reluctant of readers and help develop visual literacy skills. Suitable for 6+ year olds. Wait a Minute, Ruby!: Ruby wants to play, but Mum is busy, Dad is cooking and Gran is working on the computer. No one has time for her, so Ruby packs her bag and decides to leave. Suddenly, Mum notices that Ruby is missing and the family begin to panic! Where can she be? Ages 6+.