Lightning provides: 32 books with 3 levels of differentiation per book; whole texts that provide NLS genre coverage; linked themes across fiction, non-fiction and the wider curriculum; focussed teaching support for each book including comprehension and writing activities; and a teaching and practice CD that provides opportunities for ICT.

The programme organisers consist of one book per year provides an overview of the series including: the rationale behind the programme structure and how it links with the NLS; correlation charts; assessment sheets; and an analysis of children's reading behaviours.