Suggesting the need for a balance between literature and intentional skills instruction, this book provides grade 3-6 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 Stella Perry); (2) Managing Your Classroom (Delores Stubblefield Seamster and Donald Dale Valle); (3) Assessing Your Classroom (Adele Fiderer and Kathy Ott); (4) Integrating the Language Arts (Gwendolyn Y. Turner and Kathy Hammer); (5) Using Literature in Your Classroom (Douglas K. Hartman and Carol Hicks); (6) Teaching Skills and Strategies with Literature (James F. Baumann and others); (7) The Role of Mentors and Apprentices (David Rose and Wendy Brandrowski); (8) Supporting All Learners (Hilda Medrano and Norma Jasso); (9) English Language Learners (Alfredo Schifini and Erminda Garcia); (10) Using Technology in Your Classroom (David Rose and Mark Williams); and (11) Connecting Families and School (Arlene Mitchell and Gladys Graham). (RS)