The author directs specific attention to the research lacuna existing between the psychologically-oriented reading specialists and the contribution of the phenomenological domain of philosophy. A comprehensive format presents an appropriate synoptic overview of current (often conflicting) viewpoints in reading theory, identification of the significant dimensions of the phenomenological school of philosophy, and a concrete probing of the manner in which the neglected domain of phenomenology contributes positively towards the advancement of studies in reading. Table of contents includes: An Introduction to Theories of Reading; An Introduction to Phenomenological Theories of Reading; Reading Theories and the History of Western Philosophy; Studies of Meaning in Reading Theories; Comprehension in Reading Theories; Phenomenological Theories of Comprehension; A Further Dialogue on Issues of Comprehension; Critique in Reading; The Role of Play in Reading; and The Practice of Literacy Instruction.