A strong theoretical introduction to the South African classroom and how children can be encouraged to become enthusiastic readers. Aimed at student teachers and practising teachers. Contents include the following: • Developmental stages of a child • History of South African literature; with particular reference to the oral tradition • Role of the adult in establishing a reading culture • Practicalities of introducing stories and literature to children in different phases from diverse contexts • Use of illustrations and technology to enhance other literacies • Techniques of storytelling and selecting appropriate texts • Influence of the hidden curriculum in terms of moral development; stereotyping; sanitising and representation