This book, which contains selected papers given at the 1970 International Reading Association convention, is aimed at people who are looking for challenging material pertaining to literature for children and young people. It is divided into two sections. The first part--Qualities of Literature, Readers, and Writers in Action--contains a provocative article by Jean Karl, who assesses the present children's literature and looks into the future. Also in Part 1 is an article by Lloyd Alexander and another one about the man and his work. Mr. Alexander is winner of the 1969 Newbery award and has been acclaimed as the author of the greatest recent fantasy for children. The second section is entitled Literature in Action. All the articles are by people knowledgeable in the field: Charlotte S. Huck presents suggestions for improving interest and appreciation of literature, especially in elementary schools, supplemented with a reaction by Jo Stanchfield; J. W. McKay discusses the development of reading skills through literature at the secondary level; Dwight L. Burton presents his thinking about the content of the high school literature program; and William W. Crowder points out how literature can foster international relations. References are included. (Author/DH)