"Books saved him."-Katherine Paterson. In this project, bibliotherapy (the use of literature in helping children cope with emotional problems or change) was invenstigated. its history, with a specific focus on past and current uses in professional clinical and educational practice, was researched and outlined. In addition, a review of the psychological social and emotional needs and development of fourth through eighth graders (early adolescence) was conducted. A summative argument supporting the use of bibliotherapy as a tool to meet the specific needs of early adolescents in the classroom setting was put forward. Limitations were noted. Upon completion of the research, an implementation guide for educators was created, in which textsets and accomplanying activities were formulated based on research and research-based criteria. As an addendum, information and criteria selection advice specific to the needs of the teacher practitioner was included. 

Committee Chair: Dr. Don Woodcock.