Because both adults and children have claimed Newbery books are difficult, this study sought to determine minimum reading level of 20 Newbery award winners by testing reading comprehension of fifth and sixth graders on each book. Only two books exceeded fifth- and sixth-grade reading levels. Book ratings are listed. (DS)

Discusses Biblical narratives for children and suggests criteria to use for assessing Bible story books. Twelve examples of good books are described, including picture books as well as stories for older children. Features that are discussed include illustrations, use of color, readability, and racial assumptions. (LRW)

A stratified sample of library books in an English junior school were analyzed in comparison to students' reading ages and interests. Findings indicated that the readability level of most books was too high and that a negative correlation existed between children's professed interests and the subject matter of library nonfiction. (Author/SJL)

The readability level of material recommended for consumer health collections in public libraries is analyzed. All medical and lay items examined were found to exceed the standard reading skills of the general public. Discussion includes the relevance and appropriateness of sources, information needs and information-seeking behaviors, and a review…

Discusses the teachers' and the students' roles in the selection of literature to be taught, developing a selection policy, the place of the classics in literature curriculum, and the connection between literature and values education. (SRT)