This book is part of a series that helps parents choose books for their children and talk with them about books in ways that actively engage children with the meaning on the printed page. The Introduction discusses children's natural development and how it affects their reading interests and behaviors. The first chapter, "Reading and Sharing with Children, Ages 3 to 5," discusses read-aloud strategies and conversation starters. The next chapter, "Choosing Books for Children, Ages 3 to 5," suggests and describes 18 books that match the developmental characteristics of beginning readers. It organizes them according to a sense of time, the child's main interest, everyday experiences, a world of make-believe, and taking the initiative. The following chapter, "Reading and Sharing with Children, Ages 6 and 7," discusses read-aloud strategies, conversation starters, and creating empathy. It is followed by "Choosing Books for Children, Ages 6 and 7," which suggests and describes 32 books that meet children's developmental needs and that might fit their new, broadening interests. The next chapter describes 19 books on sensitive issues. A Conclusion reviews the most important points. (SR)