In this article, Aline Wolf discusses the challenges of teaching elementary reading at present time. She also raises her concern not only about the declining of reading skills, but also about the declining number of books that students actually read which creates a dilemma for teachers. She believes that the Montessori community must give priority to eliminating current deficiencies in reading. In brainstorming sessions, workshops, staff meetings, and professional Montessori consultations, she feels that Montessorians must grapple with these problems and decide on creative solutions consistent with Montessori traditions. One strategy she suggests is Elementary training courses, if they have not already done so, can adjust their curriculum to incorporate Montessori strategies for nonreaders at the elementary level. The very valuable exercise of word building can be upgraded for 6-and 7-year-olds. Phonetic readers can be found with higher interest content. The author argues that for developing readers educators should ask if the methods being used respect each child's individual interests. Does it meet his or her particular needs, whether for more help with phonograms or for a wider variety of challenging books? Does this new strategy lead each student to a love of reading? Does it weigh down the burgeoning reader with dubious tasks that usurp the time for actually reading books? In attempts to improve reading in elementary classes teachers should be certain that any procedures decided upon are in keeping with the cherished techniques that have distinguished Montessori education for over a century.