ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book a comprehensive and practical description of literature circles: what they are, where they came from, how they operate, what they mean for young readers, and how teachers can integrate them into the broader literacy program, K—12. It defines, with even more care than the first time, exactly what a literature circle is and what it is not. The book focuses on the four different training models, basic strategies and advanced variations. It concisely defines literature circles and explains how they fit into the broader language arts program, K-12. The book describes the history and origins of literature circles, a surprisingly exciting tale that begins on a ship bound for the American colonies. It explores three very different state-of-the-art literature circle classrooms.
