With the use of many examples, the author suggests trends in the use of literature for developing a child's ethnic identity, humanitarian concerns, and appreciation for the arts and literature. The books annotated include poetry collections, folklore, novels, and a variety of commentaries on current thought in teaching literature. Also discussed is the future use of multimedia approaches to literature and the collaboration between the arts and literature. The paper is directed toward teachers on both elementary and secondary levels. Suggestions are made for employing literature in various creative learning activities in the classroom. A bibliography is included. (AL)