Literature for Children A Short Introduction

For courses in children’s literature.

An accessible, concise, and engaging text on children’s literature with full-color illustrations

Inviting and brief, Literature for Children: A Short Introduction, 9th Edition provides a solid understanding of the foundations of children’s literature across genres, from picture books to folk literature. In his usual engaging style, author David Russell stresses that teachers need to first appreciate literature in order to teach it effectively. The text’s user-friendly format includes a wealth of real examples and its thoughtful presentation allows students to spend more time reading actual children’s books. Substantially revised with full-color illustrations and a new organization, the 9th Edition incorporates a variety of updates, providing a more streamlined introduction to the elements, genres, and themes in children’s literature.

David L. Russell is a professor of English at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan, where he teaches children’s literature and folk literature. He is the author of Patricia MacLachlan and Scott O’Dell, both published by Twayne Publishers, as well as Stuart Academic Drama: An Edition of Three University Plays by Garland Publishing. He has also published numerous scholarly articles on children’s literature, and was a contributor to The Oxford Encyclopedia of Children’s Literature, The Continuum Encyclopedia of Children’s Literature, and The Cambridge Guide to Children’s Books in English. He is currently co-editor of The Lion and the Unicorn.

1. The History of Children’s Literature

2. Reading the World

3. Experiencing Literature

4. The Art and Craft of Fiction

5. Picture Books

6. Poetry

7. Folk Narratives

8. Fantasy

9. Realistic Fiction

10. Nonfiction

Appendix: Children’s Book Awards

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