Picturebook read-alouds play an important role in primary grades. Despite the plethora of research on them, no empirical evidence was found on the way in which picturebook introductions shape student talk surrounding the read-aloud. Nonetheless, the introduction of a picturebook is a critical juncture that invites children into the story world and…

Investigates children's peer group discussions of a storybook, an information book, and an informational storybook. Finds older students collaborating more, drawing more on peer information, participating in longer discussions, and making more confirming and challenging responses than younger children. Finds that children stayed on topic longer…