Teachers will welcome the ready-to-use lessons that follow a predictable structure allowing for thorough and easy implementation. Both literature and nonfiction texts are addressed in each unit while the concept of journey ties together selected themes. The lessons are engaging, thought provoking and embrace rigorous learning opportunities in language arts. The book allows for a variety of grouping options, instructional strategies, student choice and product options. Instructional practices such as technology literacy, shared inquiry, literature analysis, research process, independent study, and simulations are featured. A special focus in the learning tasks is collaboration. Included is the use of the Internet as a resource for information, and allows for creative production utilizing Web 2.0 tools, while preparing students to be college and career ready. Students are sure to be challenged and deepen their understanding of the content and world. I highly recommend this book.