"This is a book I can enthusiastically recommend to colleagues who teach children’s and young adult literature, and especially to our students who are teaching middle school readers. It is unique in its approach and full of provocative ideas. Teachers will come away from this book feeling–rightfully–that they and their students can be critics as well as respondents as they become more engaged readers."

–Janet Hickman, Language, Literacy and Culture, Ohio State University

"Finally! A book specifically designed to introduce a range of literary critical theories for middle and high school students. Written in language accessible to adolescents, and using examples of literature relevant to their age and interests, she clearly explains various theoretical approaches through the discussion of specific young adult novels. This book answers the need for an age-appropriate approach to the critical study of literature. It is a must for teachers seeking to provide a foundation for lifelong critical reading and thinking!"

–Pat Zumhagen, Teacher of English Literature at the Linworth Program of Worthington High School, Worthington, Ohio.