This book contains eight selections of literature for children in Grades 3-5, books which focus on themes of friendship and family. Ranging from picture books to novels, these selections are rich with possibilities for exploring topics such as loyalty, empathy, conflict, courage, fairness, responsibility, and diversity. Each selection features the following: a detailed summary of the source of the selection; a variety of activities for embracing understanding; suggestions and techniques for facilitating in-depth discussions; and an annotated list of thematically related books. Selections in the book come from "The Table Where Rich People Sit" (Byrd Baylor); "The Lotus Seed" (Sherry Garland); "Shiloh" (Phyllis Reynolds Naylor); "Sarah, Plain and Tall" (Patricia MacLachlan);"Charlotte's Web" (E.B. White); "Bad Girls" (Cynthia Voigt); "Lily's Crossing" (Patricia Reilly Giff); and "Wringer" (Jerry Spinelli). (NKA)