This excellent resource is ideal for integrating reading and writing. Even though it isn't based on the Common Core State Standards, the choices of literature, excellent guiding questions, and strategies are great for facilitating deeper thinking, a connection with what's being read, and building writing skills. It's an especially useful tool for analyzing and understanding and even writing poetry. I'm impressed with the length and completeness of the lessons. I originally heard of this book from one of my tutees who had it in his classroom. I personally enjoyed excerpts from the many classic and culturally-rich selections.