Suggests the Book Chat model, which emphasizes subject-related, process-oriented learning principles, be adjusted to accommodate two aspects of change in literary practice: the selection of texts for literature programs; and the influence of critical-literacy theory on the way teachers question children about what they read. (NH)

Offers brief descriptions of 36 illustrated children's books that provide excellent examples of illustration and design. Groups them according to use of line, color, perspective, technique, texture, and composition and design. (SR)

Offers brief annotations of 42 illustrated children's books, organizing them into categories of unique friendships, various kinds of stories, distinct ways to communicate, special settings, different events from the past, and a multitude of cultures. (SR)

Argues that Appalachian adolescents often have difficulty finding themselves in literature yet need to see their lives represented and validated. Discusses four young adult novels and the cultural and linguistic characteristics in them that realistically portray the lives of Appalachian teens. Lists 11 other young adult Appalachian novels. (SR)

Discusses five books (published between 1995 and 1998) intended for parents, teachers, and others as they participate with young children starting on the road to a love of reading. Discusses two books focusing on babies and preschoolers and three about literature in the primary grades. (SR)

Offers brief descriptions of 35 recently published children's books that view language as a means of expressing ideas, telling stories, and creating imaginative possibilities. Groups books into those that use language of imagination, of performance, of music, of visual arts, and expressive language. Notes a few ideas on inviting readers to respond…

Presents brief annotations of 40 children's books originating or published in countries around the world, some of them traditional tales, and all of them dealing with universals of childhood, such as delights, friendship, fantasy, individual identity, and contemporary living. (SR)

Presents brief annotations of 61 books of young adult historical fiction and nonfiction that address other time periods (biblical time period, the 1700s, the 1800s, the 20th century, political unrest overseas, and chronicles) that could be used in the classroom as part of a unit of study. Describes possible activities using five of the books. (SR)

Explores the image of Jewish fathers as portrayed in children's picture books, discussing themes, trends, and significant works, and suggesting guidelines for selecting and evaluating such books. Annotations and discussion of nearly 50 books show fathers in a variety of religious and secular roles and demonstrate the diversity existing within…

Offers brief descriptions of 14 children's books (both picture books and chapter books, published in 1997 and 1998) which can be enjoyed by a wide age range of readers. (SR)

Looks at early literature in the United States against discrimination. Describes several books for young people written in the mid 20th-century that deal with discrimination, and discusses several contemporary books. Lists characteristics of discrimination; describes briefly one well-written book for young adults about discrimination; and lists 10…

Examines R.L. Stine's "Goosebumps" series, and investigates why children (including the author's two daughters) like them. Explores the lures of the horror fiction genre. Suggests that the attractiveness of the genre can be found in books more rewarding in literary terms, such as those by John Bellairs. Offers suggestions about the…

Presents descriptions of (1) the 1997 winner of the Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children ("An Extraordinary Life: The Story of a Monarch Butterfly"); (2) the 5 Orbis Pictus Honor Books; and (3) 12 other outstanding nonfiction titles selected by the award committee, 6 dealing with history and biography and 6 dealing with the…

Discusses use of nonfiction as a means of teaching preschool children reading skills required in intermediate grades. Identifies recent trends in nonfiction books, values of bringing together young children, and informational books and criteria for selecting high quality informational books. Includes bibliography of nonfiction children's books.…

Presents brief descriptions of 39 children's books (most of them published in 2000) that enlighten readers about new worlds by introducing countries, cultures, and people. Highlights books that present voices from the past, voices honoring heritage, the search for a voice, voices for freedom, voices of the community, and voices of wisdom. (SR)