Consultant and journalist Bald offers a systematic approach to teaching both children and adults while also carefully considering the many irregularities between English spelling and speech. He applies his own and others' research to develop activities that use what letters generally tell us without forcing learners into the erroneous assumption that letters alone tell us everything. He explains the roots and practice of phonics, alternatives to phonics, and key elements in the practical side of synthetic phonics, giving dozens of classroom-tested lessons and exercises. Along the way he provides case studies, readers' exercises, and detailed information on aspects of teaching language, including work with challenged readers. Indices include a glossary and a table of key patterns in English spelling, and the CD-ROM includes forms and exercise handouts. Distributed by Sage Publications. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)