Better differentiate among types of literature–help students identify where their characteristics overlap and where they diverge.

Illustrates numerous ways in which literature can contribute to children's academic development–creates a repertoire of activities for boosting academic achievement through literature.

Explores multicultural/international children's literature in cultural “groupings”–illustrates the notion of using a rich array of diverse literature in broad-based thematic units.

Keeps readers abreast of the most current literature available–introduces significant trends in the field, and helps prospective teachers make sense of them.

Introduce students to the creators of children's literature–model classroom study ideas they can share with pupils in their own classrooms.

List titles that provide opportunities for children to “see themselves” in the stories they read.

Organizes chapter material for thorough review–creates a handy reference for judging additional children's literature as it is encountered.