Children's books by successful writers may stimulate young people to think about philosophical questions, prompting lively discussions. Such books not only have literary value but also encourage children to consider matters central to the human condition. Teachers at the intermediate grade level and above can stimulate discussions of ethical…

Offers teachers of upper elementary grade students practical guidelines for learning how their students respond to literature and how to use this information in the classroom. (HTH)

Tells benefits of approaching the study of literature through a study of folk tale variants; suggests a plan for helping children analyze and compare folk tale variants. Includes a model of a discussion based on three versions of "Jack and the Beanstalk," and lists and annotates variant editions of nine familiar folk tales. (ET)

Contends that picture books can be valuable resources for teaching art appreciation and criticism. Provides suggested activities keyed to specific books. Includes a bibliography of recommended picture books selected for this approach. (CFR)

A concise yet comprehensive survey of works written for young people from infancy through early adolescence, this book provides both students of children's literature and the general reader with an introduction to the study of the field. The book is divided into two parts, the first addressing the contexts within which literature for young people…

Discusses the life of Benny Andrews, a recognized artist, cultural leader, and storyteller, and the importance of narrative in his artwork. Provides an interdisciplinary project where the students analyze Andrews'"Autobiographical Series," discuss the series as a form of storytelling, and then write their own family story. (CMK)

Demonstrates a procedure for teachers to use when evaluating multicultural books by reviewing two primary-level nonfiction books about Japan. Analyzes the use of photographs and the representation of the culture. Points out that, although nonfiction is valuable when teaching about other cultures, teachers should critically examine such books. (CH)

Describes teaching strategies for students' initial exposure to nonfiction materials to help students' comprehension of new materials of varying opinions, and integration of new knowledge. Provides specific questions to elicit student understanding and utilization of new content, author, organization, biography, style, publishing conventions,…