In writing this elementary German reader, the authors aimed at producing an "ideal" textbook. In their choice of material they were guided by the idea that reading this book should be a worthwhile experience in itself as well as a steppingstone toward further achievement. Historically, the stories range from the Middle Ages to the years following the Second World War. Included are the simple anecdote, the more profound fairy tale, the religious legend, the short story, the "Novelle," and biography. The authors' primary aim was, of course, to develop reading skill, and, accordingly, they stressed vocabulary, word formation, and those grammatical features considered essential for reading comprehension.