The central concern of this book is the effect of reading from the perspective of Holbook Jackson's reference to "the reader as artist". Part One, Literary Backgrounds, establishes the literary and psychological framework central to the book. The second part, Research Backgrounds, focuses on (1) investigating the reading process and specific factors influencing personal response and (2) synthesizing and interpreting empirical research and authoritative data on the effects of reading. The final section, Three Applications, has as its initial focus the application of the earlier discussion to curriculum development. A second focus, growing out of the first, deals with an overview of literary programs and experiences for young people through college age. This text should be of value to upper-division and graduate students of reading and literature. It should also serve as a resource for teachers of teachers and scholars who are constantly concerned with the impact and effects of reading. (Author/DH)