Other meanings of Children's literature
Literature
Children's literature is a genre of literature written for and read by children, encompassing a wide range of formats including picture books, fairy tales, novels, and poetry. It is distinguished by its intended audience, but its definition is fluid, often including works originally written for adults that have been adopted by young readers, such as Gulliver's Travels and Robinson Crusoe.
The definition of children's literature is contested. It is often defined by its intended audience, but many works now considered children's classics were not originally written for children. For example, Gulliver's Travels (1726) and Robinson Crusoe (1719) were written for adults but have been adapted for younger readers.1 Conversely, some works written for children, such as Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, are also read by adults. The field includes picture books, fairy tales, young adult fiction, and educational texts, and it overlaps with other genres such as fantasy and adventure.
Children's literature as a distinct category emerged in the 18th century with the rise of a middle class and the idea of childhood as a separate stage of life. Early examples include John Newbery's A Little Pretty Pocket-Book (1744), which was sold with a ball or pincushion, and Sarah Fielding's The Governess (1749), often considered the first children's novel.2 The 19th century saw the golden age of children's literature with works like Alice's Adventures in Wonderland (1865) and The Adventures of Pinocchio (1883). The 20th century brought diversification, including the rise of picture books and young adult fiction.
Children's literature often explores themes of growth, morality, and adventure. Common genres include fairy tales, fables, fantasy, realism, and informational books. Fairy tales, such as those collected by the Brothers Grimm, often contain dark elements but are typically sanitized for children. Fantasy, from The Chronicles of Narnia to Harry Potter, allows children to explore imaginative worlds. Realistic fiction, such as Little Women, addresses everyday challenges. Informational books, like those by Gail Gibbons, educate on science and nature.
The children's book publishing industry is a significant sector, with major publishers like Scholastic and Penguin Random House. Awards such as the Newbery Medal (US) and the Carnegie Medal (UK) recognize excellence in children's literature. The Hans Christian Andersen Award is the highest international recognition for children's authors and illustrators. In recent years, there has been a push for diversity in children's books, with initiatives like We Need Diverse Books.
Children's literature has a rich history of subversive and radical works. For example, Struwwelpeter (1845) is a cautionary tale with gruesome punishments. The New England Primer (1690) was used for both literacy and religious instruction. In the 20th century, Soviet children's literature was used for propaganda, but also produced innovative works like The Three Fat Men by Yuri Olesha. Additionally, the term "crossover fiction" describes books like Harry Potter that appeal to both children and adults, a phenomenon that has grown since the late 1990s.
This article focuses on the genre of literature written for and read by children.
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