This book identifies and analyzes research studies related to the critical skills, environments, and adult interactions that contribute to young children's literacy development. Following introductory remarks on the reformation that has emerged in the language and literacy education of young children, the chapters are: (1) "Teachers' Roles in Promoting Literacy-Related Play" (Olivia N. Saracho); (2) "Hypermediating Literacy Activity: How Learning Contexts Get Recognized" (Kris Gutierrez and Lynda Stone); (3) "Creating Opportunities for Discourse: Language and Literacy Development for At-Risk Children" (Barbara Wasik, Mary Alice Bond, and Annemarie Hindman); (4) "Storybook Reading: What We Know and What We Should Consider" (Jon Shapiro, Jim Anderson, and Ann Anderson); (5) "New Directions in Family Literacy: Building Effective Partnerships between Home and School" (Trevor H. Cairney); (6) "Engaging Children in the Appropriation of Literacy: The Importance of Parental Beliefs and Practices" (Susan Sonnenschein); (7) "Promising Perspectives and Practices in Family Literacy" (Olivia N. Saracho); and (8) "Contemporary Views of Research and Practice in Early Childhood Literacy Programs" (Olivia N. Saracho and Bernard Spodek). Each chapter contains references. (KB)