Types of Children's Literature   By: Walter Barnes (1880-)

In Types of Children's Literature, Walter Barnes provides a comprehensive examination of the different genres and themes found within children's literature. His expertise as a professor of childhood studies shines through in this captivating and informative book.

Barnes begins by offering a brief history of children's literature, tracing its roots back to ancient times and highlighting its cultural significance throughout different periods. This historical perspective allows readers to understand the evolution of children's literature and appreciate its enduring impact on young minds.

The book then delves into the various types of children's literature, each discussed in a separate chapter. From picture books to folktales, fantasies to historical fiction, Barnes covers a wide range of genres, providing examples and analysis that highlight the unique features and storytelling techniques employed in each.

One of the noteworthy aspects of this book is Barnes' ability to provide a balanced perspective on each type of literature. He neither favors nor dismisses any particular genre, ensuring a fair assessment of their strengths and weaknesses. Barnes also emphasizes the importance of diversity and representation in children's books, discussing the significance of literature that reflects different cultures, races, genders, and abilities.

What sets Types of Children's Literature apart from other books on the subject is Barnes' ability to make complex literary theories accessible to a broader audience. His writing style is engaging and straightforward, allowing both students and general readers to grasp the concepts without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of numerous examples and illustrations further aids in understanding the discussed genres.

Furthermore, each chapter ends with thought-provoking discussion questions and suggested readings, which make this book an excellent resource for educators, parents, and anyone interested in exploring children's literature further. Barnes encourages readers to reflect on the messages conveyed through different types of literature and their potential impact on a child's development.

If there is one criticism to be offered about this book, it is the limited exploration of contemporary digital media and its influence on children's literature. With the rise of e-books, interactive apps, and digital storytelling, a more in-depth examination of these emerging forms of literature could have further enriched the overall discussion.

Overall, Types of Children's Literature by Walter Barnes is an essential guide for anyone interested in children's literature or studying childhood development. This comprehensive and accessible book provides a valuable resource that is bound to engage and inspire readers. Whether you are a parent, an educator, or simply a lover of children's books, this thought-provoking examination of various literary genres is sure to deepen your appreciation of the power of literature in shaping young minds.

First Page:

This collection of specimens of children's literature has evolved itself naturally and, as it were, inevitably out of the editor's experience in teaching classes in children's literature in normal school and college, and it is published in the belief that other teachers of this subject find the same need of such a book that the editor has experienced. For it is obvious that if we are to conduct classes in children's literature either for general culture or for specific training of teachers, we must have specimens of children's literature readily accessible to the students... Continue reading book >>