While most people will purchase this book primarily for the reading recommendations, Linkskoog and Hunsicker also use the first four chapters to accomplish broader goals. They first make a case for modern children's literature to be read in addition to "classic" literature. They discuss "enemies" of reading—things like television and video games that have negative influences on the brain and thinking skills as well as on a child's motivation to read. The third chapter presents some strategies to get the family "into books." The fourth chapter is a condensed history of children's literature which might have appeal for some readers.
From there we move on to the annotated recommendations of more than 1,800 books for children of all ages. They are presented in categories such as classics, fantasy, realistic fiction and biography, picture books, and books that provide "Christian nurture and values." General age levels are suggested. The viewpoint is definitely Christian, although there are certainly some recommendations that Christians will quibble over. The annotations/descriptions are lengthier and more helpful than in many other such books, making this a helpful tool for parents in guiding children's selection of reading material.
