This book presents a research-based, three-sided, educational framework for incorporating picture books into the classroom. The triad integrates creative arts, cognitive skills, and learning styles. The purpose of the book is to provide a format that invites and encourages intermediate and middle school teachers and students to explore the rich content, visual beauty, and moving messages found in picture books. The lessons in each section are correlated to readily available picture books. "Caring for the Earth" examines ways of appreciating and nurturing the gifts of the earth and includes: (1) "The Great Kapok Tree" by Lynne Cherry; (2) "A River Ran Wild" by Lynne Cherry; (3) "City Green" by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan; and (4) "Just a Dream" by Chris Van Allsburg. "Bridges Across Generations" examines the role of the elderly in the circle of life and includes: (1) "The Patchwork Quilt" by Valerie Flournoy; (2) "The Old, Old Man and the Very Little Boy" by Kristine L. Franklin; (3) "Grandpa's Song" by Tony Johnston; and (4) "Sachiko Means Happiness" by Kimiko Sakai. "Who are the Homeless?" examines the many faces of the homeless and includes: (1) "Fly Away Home" by Eve Bunting; (2) "A Rose for Abby" by Donna Guthrie; (3) "Space Travelers" by Margaret Wild; and (4) "Working Cotton" by Sherley Anne Williams. Contains suggested additional resources, a bibliography, and culminating activities for each section. (EH)