Argues that while story grammar is useful in teaching students to analyze stories, teachers must be aware that a story grammar approach appropriate for stories written in the Western tradition may not match stories written in the traditions of other cultures. Uses Japanese folktales to illustrate the point. (FL)

Examines various explanations for the lack of reading problems in Japan, including the nature of the Japanese written language, the interest of Japanese parents in teaching young children to read, the different perceptual processes involved in reading Japanese, and the quantity of Japanese publications suitable for preschool children. (FL)

The four papers in this collection focus on cross-cultural concerns related to literature and literacy. The first paper discusses the development of children's literature as a field of study, and describes the emerging interest in children's literature as reflected in library collections, exhibits and book fairs, professional conferences,…

Briefly describes 22 reports on language-related research relevant to Southeast Asia, detailing study aims, methodology, researchers, and sponsors for studies conducted in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. (CB)