The believable voices of Judy Blume's characters--such as the troublemaking Fudge from "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing" and freckle-less Andrew from "Freckle Juice"--have charmed readers since Blume published her first book, "The One in the Middle Is the Green Kangaroo," in 1969. This article presents an interview with author Judy Blume. In this…

Describes how teachers can set up high-quality classroom libraries that motivate students to read. Suggestions include assessing student needs; acquiring reading materials (through book clubs and donations from students and families); and being actively innovative so the library remains fresh and dynamic (e.g., by adding shelves, offering a wide…

Presents suggestions to help struggling readers in upper elementary grades. The suggestions focus on: how to select the right books, how to introduce the books, and how to read the books. A sidebar presents a below-level readers' gripe list (e.g., people think they are dumb, treat them like they cannot think, and make them invisible). (SM)

Presents an annotated listing of books about all kinds of heroes for elementary school students. Stories include the young King Arthur; an assertive, baseball-playing heroine who becomes a princess; an older brother dealing with his younger brother; a Christmas story; civil rights icon Rosa Parks; and the cow who jumped over the moon. (SM)