I bought this book based on the great reviews, but most of the stories are about caucasians. That's fine, but I'm in an area where only 20% of the students are white.

However, the stories are good, and each is preceeded by information about the author.

I am a read aloud mom to 4th graders, and each and every story I have read from this book to the class has them CAPTIVATED! I was trying to decide on a favorite, but they are ALL so good!! The book has stories that truly touch your heart. It has fiction and nonfiction, humor, satire, tragedy, biography, short pieces; long pieces. Jim Trealease also does a great job introducing the authors which are stories within themselves. I can't say enough about this book. If you have anyone you wish would read more rather than watch TV, purchase this. It will definitely get their interest, and the students may purchase some of the books after reading one of the interesting chapters, and the life of the author Jim Trelease writes about. The 4th grade class I read to, are asking that very question (what is the name of that book and the author).

My students really enjoyed the selections I read to them from the book. It is great resource to have on hand when you've finished your lesson and there is still five minutes left in class. It is also terrific to have for those studyhall kids who never seem to have any work ... toss it to them and say, "Have a look at this." In two minutes, they are silent, usually for the rest of the period.

After reading the fabulous book, I feal like i'm ready to face the word. It is filled with great literature for you children.