“This volume represents the definitive word on reading comprehension—and as we all know, reading with understanding is what reading is all about. The second edition takes the reader through the history of reading comprehension research right up to the present, with chapters that are highly readable and accessible. The book is exceptionally well organized and is an ideal text for graduate classes in literacy development. The authors of these chapters are the top scholars in the field.”

—Susan B. Neuman, EdD, Teaching and Learning Department, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University


“A masterpiece. This volume represents the new gold standard for research on reading comprehension. It surveys the historical, theoretical, methodological, empirical, cultural, and pedagogical dimensions of comprehension research. Researchers, educators, policymakers, and curriculum designers will find the second edition of this handbook indispensable.”

—Douglas K. Hartman, PhD, College of Education, Michigan State University


“Over recent years, there has been a revolution in our understanding of reading comprehension. The second edition of this handbook is the best and most up-to-date introduction to this revolution for researchers, teachers, and students alike. It is essential reading for anyone interested in literacy.”

—James Paul Gee, PhD, Mary Lou Fulton Presidential Professor of Literacy Studies and Regents’ Professor, Arizona State University


“We live in a time when an individual’s ability to process information and reason at a deep level is critical to quality of life and advancement as a society. Fortunately, the second edition of this handbook extends our knowledge about why we should study various aspects of reading comprehension and what approaches to instruction have merit. An extremely valuable and comprehensive resource.”

—Michael F. Hock, PhD, Senior Research Scientist and Director, Center for Research on Learning, University of Kansas