The article explores the benefits of extensive reading in the beginning German language classroom. Employing a simplified version of Johanna Spyri's novel "Heidi," the article brings together research on extensive reading and cultural literacy in a unit dedicated to the incorporation of Switzerland into the German language curriculum. The novel is used as a companion piece to the introductory textbooks common at the beginning level and helps develop linguistic skills at that level. Assigning "Heidi" as part of the German literary canon allows instructors to explore universal themes that align well with the AP curriculum, introduce beginning students to linguistic diversity in the German-speaking areas of Europe, teach literary analysis, and provide students with a pleasurable extended reading experience.