Through this pragmatic approach to core reading programs and literature-based instruction teachers are offered opportunities to effectively use both to enhance their students' literacy instruction and learning. The authors select various sample themes and lessons from existing core programs. From this base, they show multiple ways that teachers can extend these initial learnings to more complex, deeper understandings. Similar to core reading programs, the authors provide multiple ways to extend the core reading experience, where teachers can choose what best fits the needs of their students. For use with Grades K-3.