This essay discusses why the theme approach to the teaching of literature to elementary school students is an effective way to focus attention on concepts related to pupils' lives. The author argues that this approach is better than organizing children's literature according to either subject or type because the teacher can more easily guide his students toward the goals of critical thinking. While various students may read different books (depending on their reading level and interests), the class as a whole can meaningfully share ideas focusing on one theme. The author asserts that teachers often become preoccupied with the problems of word recognition and literal comprehension and consequently fail to raise the level of comprehension or to encourage interpretation, evaluation, and application of ideas gained from reading. A theme approach to literature may serve to personalize the reading experience and to develop critical thinking. (Author/DI)