Notes that boys continue to be portrayed in reading materials in activities stereotypically associated with males, such as sports, adventure, and leadership; suggests that reading materials are needed that show boys in nurturing and expressive roles as well. (MKM)

The textbooks of a nation are generally a reflection of the values, goals, and essential priorities of that particular society. Therefore, teachers, parents, administrators, school boards, and publishers must ensure that the best thinking of various groups and of textbook critics is incorporated in the development of more effective textbooks.…

In a review of 71 geography, history, and social studies books, a panel of individuals knowledgeable about Central America found omissions and stereotypic views that prevent students from understanding current events in that region. (Author/GC)

Frances FitzGerald's critique of American social studies and history curricula in "America Revised" is reviewed. The conclusion drawn is that censorship, special interests, and marketability exercise too great an influence on the textbook industry. (JMF)

This is a collection of articles in which the treatment of Puerto Ricans in published children textbooks over the past 10 years is reviewed. The collection is preceded by an editorial responding to an "American Educator" article branding the Council on Interracial Books for Children as a "leftist extremist" organization. The…

Argues that textbooks legitimate selective forms of knowledge underlying supposedly democratic reforms heavily influenced by conservative economic/political forces and eclipsing the historical experiences and cultural expression of the less powerful. Views textbooks as part of social construction of reality. Calls for politicized, multiple…

Includes an historical overview of reading textbooks, a discussion of some procedures used by publishers to eliminate textbook bias, an analysis of a popular Houghton-Mifflin reading series (for grades 1-3), and a proposed statement of the rights of children to unbiased textbooks. (Author/GC)

This guide to resources on India is designed to help teachers, students, librarians, and general adult readers locate materials that will help them understand Indian civilization. It is presented in five chapters. Chapter I offers three essays--"Learning About India: An Overview on Understanding India," by P. Lal; "On Teaching…