This book, designed primarily for use in classes in children's literature in English and education departments and in library schools, colleges, and universities, provides an extensive survey of children's books. Part one, "Knowing Children and Books," examines children's needs, provides guidelines for book selection, and traces history and trends in children's literature. Part two, "Discovering Books with Children," suggests books for early childhood and discusses the illustrator's contribution. Part three, "Exploring the Types of Literature," examines folk tales, fables, myths, epics, modern fantasy, poetry, modern fiction, historical fiction, biography, and informational books for children. Part four, "Bringing Children and Books Together," discusses patterns of response to literature, the encouragement of the various responses, and the introduction of literature to children. Finally, part five, "Areas and Issues--Children and Books," examines controversial topics such as censorship, television, sexism, and so on. Appendixes include book selection aids, adult references, a listing of publishers and their addresses, a listing of children's book awards, and a pronunciation guide. (Author/KS)