Agendas for Second Language Literacy goes beyond the second language classroom to examine the sociopolitical, economic, familial, and educational agendas that influence an immigrant's attainment of literacy in a new language. Each agenda is introduced through illuminating case studies drawn from research in North America, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Professor McKay clearly analyses the conflicts between different interest groups and paints a sensitive picture of how the needs of an individual may be at odds with any and all of the various literacy agendas. The book is addressed to teachers and teachers-in-training involved in second language education, whether their students are in special language classes, bilingual education, or enrolled in the mainstream curriculum. It also provides valuable insights to individuals responsible for developing second language literacy policies in the political, labour, and educational sectors.