And With a Light Touch: Learning About Reading, Writing, and Teaching With First Graders

Avery (an education consultant and former elementary school teacher) covers the basics of early literacy training, including the classroom climate, the writing process, the reading process, children's literature, the applications of literacy to other subjects, and the measurement and documentation of student progress. Appendices include conference checklists, conference records, directions for bookbinding, reading conference notes, individual reading records, writing strategies and skills, and recommended children's books. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

CAROL AVERY is respected in the United States and Canada for her expertise in language arts teaching and as a leader in professional organizations that support teachers. She is the author of the book And with a Light Touch: Learning about Reading, Writing and Teaching with First Graders, which was published by Heinemann in 1993. She has also published numerous professional articles and chapters in books related to teaching writing. Her background includes a bachelor's degree in library science and master's degrees in elementary education and writing. She has a special interest in children's literature and is a reviewer and columnist on children's literature. She served as the 1997 president of the National Council of Teachers of English. She has worked as a consultant, workshop presenter, and keynoter throughout the U.S. and in several foreign countries.