Reviews the recent professional literature on family literacy programs, with a focus on the use and role of children's literature, specifically multiethnic texts, within those programs. Describes children's literature in family literacy and discusses the role of multiethnic literature in family literature. Presents three examples of family…

Considers the origin and validity of phonemic awareness and why phonemic awareness is important. Discusses phonemic awareness in a balanced reading program, and teaching phonemic awareness. Suggests activities that promote phonemic awareness by using children's literature. Discusses assessment of student progress. Presents experiences with her…

Discusses research findings on gender issues in education and suggests how school librarians can incorporate this information into their programs and practices. Topics include research on: children's literature and sex roles; reading habits and topic interests; information literacy behaviors; and classroom interactions. (AEF)