This fully updated, second edition of the introductory textbook on the expanding domain of literacy studies, examines recent developments and new research, emphasizing the interdisciplinary growth of research on reading and writing over the past decade. It considers competing literacy definitions in present-day society, and explores the language and acquisition theories underpinning new literacy views. There is additional material on new technologies, cross-cultural perspectives, US-based examples, and information on contemporary ducational policy.