A total reading program must provide for the sequential development of reading skills and the deliberate development of interest in reading. The prime means of accomplishing the goals of skills and interest in reading is use of a basal reading program along with independent reading. The basal reader is designed to provide for the sequential development of essential reading skills, and a good independent reading program is needed to provide for varied and appealing application of these skills. The independent reading time can be an important time in which to open the world of art. A student can be transported to a different time and world by reading books on art history and art appreciation. An excellent book to introduce students to the wonderful world of art is H. W. Janson and D. J. Janson's "The Story of Painting." (Eighteen references are attached.) (RS)