Developing Language and Literacy (second edition). By Ann Browne. (Paul Chapman Publishing, 17.99, 020 7374 0645)
Reviewed by Marian Whitehead, language and early years consultant
This is a handsome second edition of a book that has remained an invaluable and comprehensive guide for practising and trainee teachers since its publication in 1996.
The main changes in this edition reflect the new curriculum documents about language and literacy, namely the National Literacy Strategy framework, the 1999 National Curriculum and the Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage. The author is a trainer and adviser who is familiar with the vast field of language research and able to reflect on it critically and also equally at home in the early years classroom.
She has been remarkably successful in setting out, with great clarity, the national requirements for the English curriculum in England, without compromising the traditions and principles of good early years education. This is a book rich in ideas, inspiration and supportive guidance - see for example chapters three and 11 on 'resources' and 'planning'.
I hope that all practitioners who love children, language and literature will add this book to their collections of well-used professional books.
