Three cheers for multicultural views in the classroom.

* AFTER HEARING of it from your Booktalk column, I read Coolies, by Yin, in my classroom. The author is a second-generation Chinese American who gave my students a new perspective on the importance of the Chinese contribution to the transcontinental railroad. The historical portrayal was aided by vivid, realistic watercolor illustrations.--Shayna Duncan, Long Prairie, MN

* THANK YOU for "Song of the Sky Loom" [Nov/Dec, 2003]. Looking at Thanksgiving through the eyes of a Native American gives students the chance to develop a greater understanding. And the poem by someone of the Tewa people was another authentic voice.--Tila Mullen, Carlos, MN

* PAGING THROUGH a back issue of Instructor [September, 2002] I found a timely article on reaching out to immigrant parents ["Speaking Their Language"] to get them involved. A few pages away was "Welcoming Second Language Learners," full of ways to help these students feel less anxiety and make the adjustment smoother. It is very helpful to have such articles when starting out in teaching or wanting to be more aware.--Michelle Contons, Boulder, CO

Editors' reply: On these themes, watch for "Benji Becomes a Reader" on page 72, grand prize poems on the Instructor Masterpiece of the Month pullout poster, and "Waxing Poetic," page 37.

Send your letter to Instructor, 524 Broadway, New York NY 10012-3999 or e-mail [e-mail]. Letters must be signed and may be edited for clarity.