Suggesting the need for a balance between literature and intentional skills instruction, this book provides K-2 teachers and administrators with a theoretical base for creating a balanced reading program and gives educators a chance to step into actual classrooms where teachers have successfully implemented effective programs. Each chapter in the book has four components: a theoretical article by an academic expert, a classroom-based article by a practicing teacher; a tool to see how a classroom fits the approach; and easy-to-implement suggestions for trying new approaches. Chapters in the book are (1) A Balanced Reading Approach (D. Ray Reutzel and Julianna Mellor); (2) Managing Your Classroom (Delores Stubblefield Seamster and Donald Dale Valle); (3) Assessing Your Classroom (Adele Fiderer and Ethel Huttar); (4) Ensuring Success for the Beginning Reader (Gay Su Pinnell and Lisa A. Luedeker); (5) Using Literature in Your Classroom (Adria Klein and Roger Bylund); (6) The Role of Phonemic Awareness and Phonics (John Shefelbine and others); (7) Integrating the Language Arts (Linda Gambrell and Mona Mitchell); (8) The Role of Mentors and Apprentices (David Rose and Karen Popadic); (9) Supporting All Learners (Hilda Medrano and Isela Almaquer); (10) English Language Learners (Alfredo Schifini and Erminda Garcia); (11) Using Technology in Your Classroom (David Rose and Susan Fitzgerald); and (12) Connecting Families and School (Arlene Mitchell and Melba J. Reno). (RS)