Shares numerous short descriptions from readers of this journal describing their ideal reading classroom. Includes specific "creative and engaging" ways to teach reading in those classrooms. (SR)

Notes several kinds of book clubs (for adults, children, and both) and the joys of sharing reading with others. Discusses 32 children's books (books of poetry, lessons for young writers, on the realities of young people's lives, and books that lead to talk about real heroes) that lend themselves to passionate and spirited book talk. (SR)

Attempts to predict trends and changes that will accompany children's books into the 21st century and beyond. Hopes that readers will recognize how difficult it is to detach from the context of one's own lifetime experience with children's books. Suggests that the need of the human spirit to belong and be accepted will always give literature the…

The causal effects of a voluntary summer reading intervention on children's reading activities and reading achievement were assessed in a randomized experiment involving 331 children in Grades 1-5. Children were pretested in the spring on a standardized test of reading achievement (Stanford Achievement Test, 10th ed.), on the Elementary Reading…

A study investigated the attitudes toward reading of Western Kansas students in grades 1-6. Of the 156 students in the sample, 45 participated in the study group while 111 constituted the control group. The independent variables were participation status, achievement in reading, gender, socioeconomic class status, intelligence test scores, and…

The study investigated reading attitudes and interests of 30 fourth through ninth grade gifted and talented students. The data were gathered through the use of a questionnaire, which included statements with Likert type scale responses, multiple-choice, and short answers. Methods used to analyze the data were individual item analysis, analysis of…

Reading achievement and attitude scores of a National Assessment of Educational Progress sample of 9-year-old students were multiply regressed on one another on home environment variables. Correlations and partial correlations of achievement with home environment, quality of instruction, and leisure time television watching were found. (Author/DF)

Outlines the steps in presenting a "book talk." Argues that it can be an effective way to broaden children's awareness of literature while developing their verbal skills. (FL)

Calls attention to the area of children's drama and cites several works of interest. (FL)

Presents an interview with Janet Hickman. Notes that she is a highly respected scholar in children's literature and a recognized and much lauded author of novels for children. Discusses disparate topics from her earliest encounters with print to mandates surrounding scientifically based reading research (SBRR). (SG)

Describes a Community Literacy Day that attempts to involve as many family and local community members as possible in a positive and enjoyable celebration of literacy. Notes that the objective was to begin to form a community as an interacting population of various kinds of individuals with common interests living together in a common area--a…

Discusses Linda Sue Park, the 2002 Newbery Medal winner, and includes excerpts of an interview with her. Notes that her diverse writing career began at an early age. Discusses writing Korean "historicals" and researching her other books. Identifies mentors as an important characteristic of both her life and work. (PM)

Notes that children's views of themselves as readers and the reading strategies they develop are rarely considered in reading assessment. Emphasizes that, through observations, interviews, and instructional techniques, teachers can broaden evaluations to include student perceptions, thereby gaining a greater understanding of students, and giving…

A longitudinal study compared the progress of 324 10-year-olds from four schools on reading attainments, attitudes, and habits. Two schools were given extra books to supplement their normal stock. Although results indicate important changes in reading attainments, no simple differential gain was identified in relation to attainments or attitudes.…

Attempts to isolate student and family characteristics that might have an impact upon student achievement in the Chapter 1 reading program. Finds that the most important characteristics are student's self-concept; ability to take a risk; effort; study habits/time management/organizational skills; and attitude toward reading. Finds parent's…