Intended to provide support, encouragement, and ideas for teachers wanting to make the transition from skill-oriented basal texts to literature-based whole language programs, this book describes a successful existing program and offers suggestions on how any elementary classroom can benefit from such a transition. Its 17 chapters are entitled: (1) "My Turning Point: Catalysts for Change"; (2) "Why Change? A Need for Active Literacy"; (3) "The Reading Program: Teaching Reading with Children's Books"; (4) "Using Predictable Books: What You Need To Know"; (5) "Literature Extension Activities: Meaningful Independent Work"; (6) "The Writing Program: How To Begin It and Keep It Going"; (7) "The Reading-Writing Process: Moving into Grade 2"; (8) "The Literature-Writing Program: Continuing in Grade 3"; (9) "Parent Involvement: Communication"; (10) "First Year Journals: Entries from Two Teachers"; (11) "Everyday Concerns: Organization and Classroom Management"; (12) "Evaluation: Evaluating the Process As Well As the Product"; (13) "Making Changes: The Need for Teacher Support"; (14) "Any Questions?" (15) "Postscript: Transitions"; (16) "Resources for Teachers"; and (17) "Recommended Literature" (classified by grade and literary style, and by level of difficulty). Twenty appendixes conclude the book. (SR)