The five articles contained in this journal issue deal with basic/survival reading skills. Specific topics covered in the articles are an overview of survival reading, the reading habits of college students, a principal's view of reading instruction, a healthy self-concept as a basic survival skill, and a readability rating list for teacher-made materials. Regular journal features include a research update on accountability and the basics, a list of survival skills materials for use by teachers, reviews of professional materials, and a discussion of the role of parents in child language development. (FL)