Based on the premise that the missing piece of reading instruction is code knowledge, this book is about how to teach a code and the best way for children to learn it. The code used in the book maps 26 symbols to nearly 40 sounds--there are many different ways to spell most sounds, and many symbols stand for more than one sound. Following an introduction by Diane McGuinness, chapters in the book are titled: (1) Reading Explained; (2) Getting Started; (3) Teaching the Basic Code; (4) Adjacent Consonant Sounds; (5) Teaching the Advanced Code; and (6) Multisyllable Management. The book includes: simple diagnostic tests to determine a child's reading level; a "literacy growth chart" to help establish goals; detailed instructions on how to correct faulty reading strategies such as part-word reading and memorizing; lesson plans, hands-on materials, worksheets, stories, word exercises, and games; and lessons constructed to meet the interests and capabilities of children of all ages. An afterword, various tests, and a glossary conclude the book. (NKA)