Introduction : engagement with picture books.
1. Importance of picture books
Literature and picture books defined
Controversies in children's literature
Learning through literature
Conclusion: The contributions of picture books.
2. Quality in picture books
Formulating professional judgments about picture books
How difficult is writing a quality children's book?
Deciding which books are good
Conclusion: Books that children love.
3. Bringing children and books together
Meeting the needs of young children
Which book for which child?
Sharing books effectively with young children
Getting books into children's hands
Conclusion: Connecting with picture books.
4. Young children's responses to picture books
Influences on a child's response to literature
Understanding children's responses
Sources of picture book appeal
Predicting how children will respond
Conclusion: Making picture books part of daily practice.
5. Acquiring literacy through picture books
Links between literacy and literature
Understanding emergent literacy
Deciphering print with predictable books
An apprenticeship toward comprehension
Conclusion: How picture books build readers.
6. Families and picture books
Barriers to literacy for all
When to begin reading picture books
Building readers from infancy to independence
How to share picture books at home
Conclusion: Making the commitment to reading aloud.
7. Linking picture books with curriculum
Goals for picture books in the curriculum
Building a picture book collection
Picture books for curriculum planning
Conclusion: Accepting responsibility for a literature-based curriculum.
A final word : the future of picture books
Appendix: A. Outstanding picture book authors and illustrators
B. Internet resources on children's literature
D. Selected books for toddlers, and resources for teachers.
