This classic text shows readers how children’s literature can capture the attention of K-8 students and foster a lifelong love of reading. The standard text in the field, it covers learning about children’s literature, understanding children’s responses to literature, the history of children’s literature, beginning books, picture books, the genres of children's literature, planning the literature program, and extending and evaluating children’s understanding of literature. The eighth edition’s cover illustration and interior details were created specifically for this text by children’s book illustrator Karen Barbour.