This classic text, the standard in the field, shows readers how children's literature can capture the attention of K-8 students and foster a lifelong love of reading. The text covers learning about children's literature, understanding children's responses to literature, the history of children's literature, beginning books, picture books and all of the genres (fantasy, poetry, realistic fiction, historical fiction, biography, and informational books), planning the literature program, and extending and evaluating children's understandings of literature.