What is the point of pushing a four-year-old to read?

If it works, s/he will be bored, restless and snotty in school when the other children are learning. Would you like such a child in your class?

If it doesn't work, you will have frightened and discouraged the kid. Why do that?

4YO's are noted for their love of rhythm, rhyme and the sounds of language. Get some poetry books, sing some songs and enjoy this wonderful time in your kid's life.