Discusses elements that are characteristic of good books: (1) impacts society; (2) changes our personal lives; (3) stretches the reader's mind; (4) handles ideas with skill; (5) is reread; (6) refines our sensibilities and intellect; (7) serves as a standard; and (8) adds to our knowledge of the human condition. (24 references) (MES)

The Blackwell Companion and Blackwell Guide to the philosophy of education, edited respectively by Randall Curren and by Nigel Blake, Paul Smeyers, Richard Smith and Paul Standish, are potentially field-defining volumes. The present essay moves back and forth between the two books to assess the overall impression they provide of the "state of the…

Discusses adult selection of books for children, including reevaluating old favorites and keeping in touch with current children's literature. Includes an annotated list of books of current interest to children and adolescents. (HTH)

To assist teachers, librarians, and others who provide reading guidance for children aged nine to fourteen, this volume provides a listing of 72 titles arranged according to nine appropriate developmental goals: getting along in the family, making friends, developing values, understanding physical and emotional problems, forming a view of the…

This annotated bibliography is a response to teachers' concerns about choosing culturally sensitive and historically accurate books about American Indians and Alaska Natives. It contains critical annotations and evaluations of approximately 1,000 books, most published 1960-93, and points out controversial titles and disagreements about specific…