Recent years have seen a significant interest in Theory of Mind (ToM), the specific groups in which it may be restricted and the opportunities which might enhance or suppress development. Previous studies have identified gaps in the literature concerning ideas for intervention and strategies which may augment the development of ToM skills.…

This semiotically informed article problematizes the concept of literacy as an aesthetic activity rather than reading skills and offers strategies for assessing young readers' understanding of fictional texts. Although not based on empirical research, the essay refers to and theorizes from extensive field studies of children's responses to…

The articles in this focused issue draw attention to works of contemporary literature with classroom potential. Four articles suggest new approaches for the reading and teaching of such established writers as Robert Frost; Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.; Eudora Welty; and Saul Bellow. Two other articles examine the bestsellers "Ordinary People" and "The Color…

Describes the use of science fiction in the science classroom to introduce and teach scientific concepts and theories, to demonstrate relevance, and to encourage further study. Included are suggestions for incorporation of science fiction in the science curriculum and sources of science fiction stories. (DS)

An author of books for young adults discusses the need for realism in adolescent literature as a means of helping teenagers to cope with real problems and describes her most recent book, which deals with euthanasia. (CLB)

Intended for both elementary and secondary school teachers who have little or no experience in teaching creative fiction writing, this booklet presents sample lesson plans for writing short stories, fables, myths, mysteries, science fiction, and historical fiction. The lesson plans discuss such elements as plot, setting, characterization, mood,…

This talk delivered at the "Focus '86...The Curriculum and You" Conference by an author of books for young adults, focuses on the problem of teenage suicide. The characters and situations of three books are described with emphasis on the need for human values within the community. (CLB)

Advocates use of bibliotherapy as an adjunct to counseling with stepchildren and remarried adults. Information to guide the selection and use of fiction and self-help books for children and adolescents is provided. Also mentioned are other audiences and uses for the adolescent fiction. (Author)

Comments on the genre of interactive fiction, noting the wide range of quality among these books. Quality is attributed to factors such as subject matter, writing style, ethical content, and the presence of stimulating motivations for readers' choices of plot branches. Several interactive books are used as examples. (MES)

Lists adolescent fiction and nonfiction titles that received Boston Globe/Horn Book Award, Carnegie Medal, Child Study Children's Book Committee at Bank Street College Award, Christopher Award, Edgar Allen Poe Award, Golden Kite Award, Nebula Award, and National Book Award/American Book Award. Each entry includes bibliographic information and…

Foregrounding, an approach to systematically analyzing the uses made of language, is advocated as a way to investigate process in the study of literature for gifted secondary students. The technique is illustrated in analysis of T.S. Elliot's "Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" and William Faulkner's "Light in August." (CL)

Considers teachers' uncertainties about approaches to teaching fiction, and suggests one practical beginning for a coordinated program. (AA)

Discusses a paperback program designed for new entrants to secondary school. A sample pupil progress sheet is included as an appendix. (AA)

Suggests ways to guide students in the skills of plot development so that they produce interesting fiction. (DD)

This supplement/newsletter contains booktalks, news, and other information of interest to librarians and adult readers. This issue includes reviews of fiction and nonfiction books for adults; an article, "How I Turned into a Booktalker--Overnight!" by Kaite Mediatore; and a new feature, "Talking with the Talkers," which focuses…