“Barone presents a clear road map for engaging young readers with literature as they read for pleasure or critical analysis. This refreshing book is complete with book lists, text sets, attention to gender issues, ideas for matching readers to texts, and think-alouds. Barone clearly has 21st-century teachers in mind. She helps teachers plan for their day with explicit examples of schedules and standards, and demonstrates ways to meet the needs of diverse readers.”

—Suzette Youngs, PhD, School of Teacher Education, University of Northern Colorado


“Teachers often struggle trying to find the right literature to build background and inspire students to read. This excellent resource gives you a wealth of book ideas and strategies to bring literacy to life in your classroom. The author brings such a personal touch to her writing; it felt like she was speaking just to me. Literature lovers will be captivated by this book.”

—Nancy Kelly, MA, literacy consultant/coach, Sparks, Nevada


“Barone covers a wide range of topics in a concise and easily accessible manner. She gives preservice and inservice teachers a better understanding of children's literature along with numerous practical ideas for using it across the curriculum. The book will help you become a more capable reader (and teacher) of children's literature by focusing your attention on the important visual, textual, and design aspects of different genres.”

—Frank Serafini, PhD, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, Arizona State University