Describes from an author's point-of-view the new genre of first novels, or chapter books, which are books with fewer pictures and more words than easy-to-reads and are divided into chapters. An annotated bibliography of 21 suggested titles is included. (LRW)

Discusses culture in picture books in three general categories: legends and histories; current life in particular areas; and the immigrant experience. Considers the translation of visual images, discusses authentic interpretations, and presents an annotated bibliography of picture books showing cultural diversity including African, Asian, Mexican,…

Considers the value of teaching "Anne Frank" and suggests that the book be just a starting point for exposing readers to other views of the Holocaust. Annotated bibliographies are included for other personal accounts of the Holocaust, with appropriate grade levels indicated. (LRW)

Summarizes Brock Cole's novel for young adolescents: "The Goats." Provides discussion questions and classroom activities in language arts, drama, research; mathematics, creative writing, similes; and presents an annotated bibliography of fiction for young adolescents dealing with runaways, self-reliance, family, friendship, courage, overweight,…

Discussion of Russian folktales suggests a structured approach to introducing the characters, settings, and motifs in an elementary classroom. Highlights include beginner-level texts; connections to Russian culture; writing connections; activities; and an annotated bibliography of 32 titles. (LRW)

Provides an annotated bibliography of short historical fiction and picture books for readers in grades K-8. Includes a list of selected Caldecott and Newbery winners with historical themes or backgrounds and a list of activity books featuring Spanish exploration in Mexico, Roman art and fashion, medieval Europe, and cowboys. (PEN)

Discussion of children's books by and for African Americans emphasizes the positive themes of family and times of joy and celebration. An annotated bibliography of 17 titles is included, with appropriate grade levels for each title indicated. (LRW)

Used in picture-book illustration, such techniques as embroidery, applique, wood-block printing, batik, and quilting reflect cultural heritages and add richly textured images to this annotated list of titles for children from preschool through junior high. (Author)

Long time favorites of authors and audiences of picture books, mice are also central figures in novels for intermediate grades. This article provides an annotated bibliography of books for grades 2-12 showing mice and humans working toward a common goal, mice and humans in conflict, mice as survivors, mice rescuers, and mice in allegory. (PEN)

Presents an annotated bibliography of titles related to the theme "Settling the West" which are appropriate for primary, elementary, and middle grades. Topics include overviews of Western history; early 19th century; the gold rush; the pony express; travelers by trail, rail, and ship; settling the West; cowboys and cattle; and the…

Audiobooks are a lasting pleasure for children. This article discusses what to consider when choosing audiobooks for gifts: quality of story, quality of narration, and appeal to the child and the rest of the family. Includes an annotated bibliography of realistic fiction, fantasy, short stories, and nonfiction audiobooks for grades 1-12. (PEN)

Illustrates the elements of story structure (beginning, middle, and end) by discussing excerpts from children's literature. Provides an annotated bibliography of picture books for each element, elementary classroom activities, and writing exercises. (PEN)

Provides an annotated bibliography of autobiographical books (K-12) by children's authors and illustrators providing insight into the way writers and artists draw on their own lives for stories. Describes classroom activities in language arts for young and older students, highlights notable autobiographical collections and series, and lists 12…

Presents a descriptive bibliography of children's alphabet books under the categories of: Animals and Nature, Cultures and Holidays, and Notable Graphics. Suggests activities for primary and intermediate grades which use these materials. (AEF)

Reading biographies will acquaint students with the contributions of African Americans in science, invention, and exploration. This article provides annotated bibliographies of collective and individual biographies; identifies sources of bulletin board and teaching materials and videotapes; and suggests class activities for individual and groups…