Discusses a need for "post picture books" (which do not contain an orderly progression of story elements) to be evaluated and understood using different criteria. Considers how literary theory provides a structure for ordering the chaos. Discusses how new metafictive books reflect new literary codes and a new dynamic reading process of…

Considers how children's books change with the culture around them. Notes how students need concrete and specific information about the special features and organization of postmodern picture books to enhance appreciation and comprehension. Investigates these specific features and demonstrates ways to teach this new story grammar. (SG)