Explores some of William Blake's poetry that is suitable for middle school readers and its relationships to a number of current works for young adults. Highlights the "Songs of Innocence and of Experience" and suggests how Blake might be connected to other literary and musical works. Hopes to encourage teachers to reread or read some of…

Offers "A Modest Proposal" to assist teachers and other school personnel in their attempts to anticipate censorship trouble directed most particularly at middle school language arts teachers. Suggests the creation of a "Published Materials List," and outlines steps for creating and disseminating a list. Discusses several benefits with the use and…

Gives resource suggestions for teachers who have decided to include literature that will build, rebuild, or develop lifelong readers, relevant to the age of those in "the middle" birth order, and who are determined to address the immediate concerns of life--from the vantage point of what it looks like to their middle school students. (SG)

Discusses the independent reading choices of students in grades six, seven, and eight at one middle school in Maryland. (MG)

Discusses author Roald Dahl's view of society as revealed through his books for children and adolescents. Describes Dahl's three major works for intermediate readers ("The BFG,""The Witches," and "Matilda"). Discusses Dahl's view of the world and its place in his books. Notes Dahl's positive impact on adolescent readers; and discusses critics'…