The most critical reason for an understanding of reading's history is that many of the classic writers saw and understood the reading process with great individual insight and understanding. Rather than being of only passing historical interest, these classic readings are relevant and important for today's reading teacher. This book offers excerpts from classic authors/educators in literacy. Excerpts in the book from A. Sterl Artley, Emmett Albert Betts, Richard de Bury, Arthur I. Gates, William S. Gray. Helen M. Robinson, David H. Russell, Nila Banton Smith, and George D. Spache touch on a variety of topics facing today's reading teachers. In addition to presenting selections of each writer's work, the book provides an overview of each writer's professional life and includes a list of annotated resources for further reading. Each chapter ends with "Reflections" to stimulate teachers to think about the words of past educators, and reevaluate their own classroom instruction. (NKA)