Describes how the author discovered practical, accessible ways of talking with her seventh and eighth graders about the considerations and decisions of fiction writers. Appends a fiction writing handbook. (SR)

Describes the use of adolescent fiction to encourage multicultural self-development among primarily European American preservice teachers in literacy and social studies methods courses. Discusses four major themes that emerged from this analysis: struggle, resistance, heightened awareness, and the modification of plans for future action. (SR)

Presents a short section from a science fiction/fantasy novel by Terry Pratchett called "The Colour of Magic." Discusses its usefulness as a read-aloud for mathematics instruction of geometry, particularly the concept of circumference. (SR)

This annotated bibliography includes 18 titles that appeal to Spanish-speaking teens under the categories of contemporary novels, historical fiction, longtime favorites, health, and myths and legends. A sidebar lists dealers of books in Spanish for children and young adults. (LRW)

Interviews Kim Stanley Robinson, a well-known science fiction author. Discusses his reasons for writing science fiction, his writing influences, and writing techniques. Explains his interest in science and the relationship between music and his writing. (PM)

Presents student-written summaries about nine science fiction, mysteries, humor, historical fiction, classics, and books that may become classics that the students felt were the best books they ever read. (SG)

Suggests that educators rethink the ways in which they introduce elements of fiction. Considers how giving students the opportunity to show what they already know about the elements of fiction can lead them to a richer appreciation of the rewards of reading short stories. Notes that folktales and urban legends can provide familiar parallels to…

Offers connections and resources about how to build a literature-based curriculum that goes beyond just the use of fiction. Provides an annotated list of 90 books on the topics of the cycle of seasons, weather cycles, cycles of the universe, and life cycles to use in connecting fiction and nonfiction. (MG)

Describes 10 science fiction stories for young readers whose contents address recent developments on the frontiers of scientific research, including genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, and robotics. The use of these materials to inform young readers about the issues and dangers involved in scientific developments is discussed. (CLB)

Argues that the three beliefs that govern the formation of characters in American fiction generally identify the greatest dangers to moral and spiritual health and how they can be avoided. Discusses the belief in the danger of a dissolution of relations with nature, the problem of conflicting values, and the failure of experiences to be…

Describes three ways that recommended books for young adults have failed female readers. Introduces two books in which female heroes transcend the common and illustrate the ability and vulnerability of heroes regardless of sex. (MG)

Surveys some recent fiction which reflects both the diverse interests and varying reading abilities of 11-18 year olds. Presents brief reviews of 26 novels touching on themes such as family, first love, social issues, adventure, fantasy, and thrillers. (RS)

The versions of academic life portrayed in two recently published novels, "Small World" and "Coming from Behind," are compared and other aspects of the works' literary merit are discussed. (MSE)

Considers science fiction as a literary genre and as a predictor of technological advances, particularly in the information industry. An annotated bibliography is included of 11 science fiction titles and 1 nonfiction book that suggest possible information futures. (LRW)

Explains why the National Council of Teachers of English's Program to Recognize Excellence in Student Literary Magazines serves to improve high school literary magazines and reward the hard work of teachers and students. Uses the judging criteria of the contest to explain why the best magazines won recognition. (TB)