How can you create that spark in the hearts and minds of children to become truly literate? This dictionary is packed with definitions of all of the concepts and principles that give meaning to children's and young adult literature and each term is clearly illustrated by examples from contemporary and classic books and tales. Every definition also includes ideas for programming activities that will bring these concepts - the building blocks of stories - alive to young readers. What are the best ways to teach kids how ""parallel stories"" function? Which recent popular characters are clear examples of ""archetypes""? What's the most fun way to compose an acrostic or a haiku? Finally, all in one place, librarians, teachers, reviewers, parents, and storytellers have a practical reference guide with entertaining explanations, examples, and activities for engaging young people in the completely informed reading experience.