Intended for teachers of grades 4-8, this book presents a flexible format for reading, designed to be used with students who have different backgrounds and experiences with reading literature. The book's first 3 sections, "Character,""Setting," and "Plot," proceed step-by-step through the recognition of these basic elements.

Within the book's step-by-step procedure, particular activities can be found for students who have a general awareness of literary elements, but who need to fine-tune their understanding of these elements. The book's fourth section, "Expanding the Reading and Writing Experience," discusses points of view, dialogue, atmosphere and imagery, and theme.

Among the book's other special features are excerpts from great literature for young readers, models of teacher-student dialogues, reproducibles, assessment tools and forms, a glossary of key literary terms, and an annotated bibliography.