My new focus for the 08/09 school year is using mentor texts in my Writers' Workshop.  These books are also called Touchstone books and refer to great pieces of children's literature that are used as  models to teach children writer's craft.  I am in the process of reading a couple of new texts that are listed at the bottom of the page.  My old standbys are also listed.  I truly believe that when children learn to read books as writers, they learn so much that can be added to their own writing.  Of course books are also read for the pure pleasure of hearing the story.  In fact, when I first introduce a book I read it for the experience without referencing writing at all.  It takes re-reading of a story for children to see the elements that they can apply in their writing.  Author studies are important and ongoing in  my classroom at all times.  My love of children's books radiates in  my classroom and is contagious for my young learners.  I love the idea that our passion for books also improves our writing!