Reflecting the reader-response theory of literature--a theory suggesting that literature is made dynamic through interaction between reader and text--this report presents ways of extending high school students' imaginative grasp of human experience. Using three works--Randall Jarrell's poem, "The Death of the Ball Turret Gunner," Ambrose Bierce' short story, "The Coup de Grace," and Stephen Crane's novel, "The Red Badge of Courage"--this report shows how reading, discussing, and writing on these works can help students connect literary and personal experiences. It suggests that discussion should begin only after the entire work is read and that teacher questions, whether aimed at comprehension or personal reactions, should serve as starters for exploration rather than occasions for testing recall or attentiveness. Furthermore, the report suggests that student writing, from initial draft, to sharing with peers, to final revision, should help students relate experiences in the novel with their own lives. (MM)