A study investigated the effect Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) has had on literacy at Estancia High School in California which recently implemented an SSR program. It also examined the role SSR has on language development, comprehension, vocabulary, student attitudes, and its corollary consequence on the development of reading habits. A survey of 22 students taught by the researcher and currently participating in the high school program supported both the positive and negative conclusions formed about SSR--19 of the students said they read most or all of the time during the established reading period. In a further survey at the school, 54 out of 90 students said they read most of the time when told to read silently for 20 minutes during class. Similar results were seen with respect to reading habits. Most students felt they read a little more since the SSR program was introduced; however, only 53% of the students surveyed want the school to continue the program. It is recommended that the SSR program be continued, since SSR gives students practice at reading and in experiencing different writing styles, which can help develop writing skills. The program provides skills that are critical in developing educated, college-bound students. (Contains a list of 14 recommendations and a 37-item bibliography.) (NKA)