Mermelstein, a literacy consultant specializing in K-5 reading and writing workshops, shows teachers how to encourage students to work by themselves on writing. She explains what a writing workshop is, its key elements, misconceptions about self-directed learning, the qualities of self-directed learners, and the benefits of this learning, then describes how to create a physical environment conducive to self-directed writing; create rituals and routines that keep the goal of self-directed learners at the forefront; scaffold instruction so all students can be successful; plan a yearlong curriculum and units of study with a focus on self-direction; craft lessons, conferences, and small-group work; and share sessions that teach new content and guide self-direction. There is no index. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)