This book takes a literature-based approach to how children learn language and how it is taught in today's diverse K-12 classrooms.

Based on the belief that literature offers the most effective instructional approach for English language learners, the text offers meaningful reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities, as well as new understandings about the forms and functions of written language. The authors' extensive experience in the public schools reflects their absolute commitment to hands-on classroom strategies, and they put those in the forefront of the book.

This is the first book that offers instructors guidance in expanding the range of materials they use for teaching ESL by going beyond the standard texts to include books of all kinds — children's literature, trade books, magazines, and other media.