Grounded in theory and research on best practices in each field, the strategies are classroom-tested and classroom-ready, with in-depth descriptions of practical activities. Each strategy describes in detail how to use one or more key books for each of the levels, Key Stage 1-2, Key Stage 3, and Key Stage 4, and also includes extensive book lists for creating classroom text sets. Ideas are also provided to differentiate instruction for English learners and struggling students.

The book is full of teaching tools: specific questions and prompts for discussion and writing, graphic organizers and student writing frames, mini-lessons on skills and writing conventions, technology resources, and assessment ideas for each strategy. A teacher can dip into the book and choose a content area, strategy, and books to put to use immediately in the classroom.