Designed to make use of the cultural knowledge students bring with them into the classroom, this thematic reader presents 47 readings by well-known authors including Alice Walker, Dave Barry, and Amy Tan, in ten chapters that explore the family, cyberspace, music, and other aspects of contemporary American popular culture. Writing assignments and group activities are provided, and film links and b&w photos encourage students to think about cultural influences beyond printed media. Additional material reviews major forms of composition and discusses writing in groups. This second edition features a new chapter on the body, and 16 new essays, plus new activities and an expanded chapter on the writing process. Annotation c. Book News, Inc.,Portland, OR