There are two disconcerting aspects of the research studies selected and discussed in the publication "Becoming a Nation of Readers: The Report of the Commission on Reading" (1985). One is the kinds of reading materials that were designated as sources for meeting the various functions of reading; the other is the omission of the role of picture books, especially the role that illustrations in picture books play in beginning reading. The book does not mention the research studies indicating that illustrations in picture books influence certain attitudes and skills associated with the beginning reading process such as vocabulary development, experiential background, comprehension, mental imagery, reading motivation, and reading interests. Research findings also offer some implications about the criteria that should be considered when illustrated books are selected for young children, such as coherence and unity in the relationship between the text and the illustrations. Finally, the authors of "Becoming a Nation of Readers" failed to mention the use of library or trade books that might be read for purposes of entertainment, information, and directions. (HOD)