How can teachers or library media specialists use their students' obvious interests in particular subjects as a motivating force for reading? The answer lies in the techniques, activities, and resources in "Approaches to Literature through Subject." An introductory chapter discusses how students become interested in subjects because of characteristics such as sex, age, culture, intelligence, etc., and the skills educators need to employ these interests to encourage students to read. Each chapter presents a subject, either people, places, things, or events. Two examples of each general subject are explored in detail, dividing them into the categories of real, imaginary, historical, and current. Related teacher and student resources are provided, as well as suggested activities and teaching methods.

The form in which literature is fashioned and presented often determines its impact. "Approaches to Literature through Literary Form" discusses the various structures of literature (narration, exposition, persuasion, procedure, and description) and identifies sources that will engage student interest. Activities, teaching techniques, and resources are provided for introducing the forms of literature that are explored.