Examines how nonfiction read-alouds can enrich elementary children's literacy learning experiences. Provides a rationale for the use of read-alouds, guidelines for selection, recommended formats for effective classroom presentation, and activities useful before, during, and after reading. (SR)

Suggests that illustrations can serve as invitations to enjoy and to ponder the images in poetry. Notes that, when poetry is read aloud to children, they should also have the opportunity to view and discuss the accompanying illustrations. Discusses how a variety of poetry books for children incorporate illustrations. (RS)

Notes that two texts were being read simultaneously as a teacher educator read aloud to other teachers in a summer seminar--Cynthia Rylant's "Missing May" and the experience of reading "Missing May." Notes that the teachers made meaning from both texts, working together to shape the teachers into a community because they had…

Demonstrates how peer interaction during writing helps children experience connections between reading and writing. Describes children's responses to unfinished pieces, a peer's "published" piece, other students' published books (read aloud by a student other than the author), and to books written by professional authors. (HTH)

Discusses research on home literacy environments, the values of reading aloud, independent reading, literature and writing, and literature in the language arts curriculum. (RS)

Presents an interview with Charlotte Huck. Includes such topics as what motivated her to set about helping to create the field of children's literature; her views on children's books and some of her favorites; and how her love of children's literature compelled her to become an author of children's books. (SR)

In an interview with New Zealand instructor and author Don Holdaway, discusses the value of shared reading experiences with very young children. Examines children's early reading strategies and the use of extra large print in reading materials. (HTH)