Revealing Relationships

Abstract

Literature holds the potential to significantly influence the lives of readers, but what is the nature of this influence for very young readers? This study investigated the question “What are the relationships between beginning readers and their personal literature?” A first-grade class of 18 students individually assembled a collection of personal literature, that is, literature that they chose to read for their own purposes, and shared their literature during presentations to the class. Data collection included observational field notes, multiple forms of literature, audio recordings, and photographs. The data were analyzed using the constant comparative method. The findings indicated four main outcomes: Students’ personal literature is a reflection of who they are as a child within a family structure; students’ personal literature brings them comfort; students’ personal literature is a reflection of their inner desires; and students’ personal literature is selected for their entertainment. The theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed.