Modern Children's Literature An Introduction [Hardcover]

An established introductory textbook that provides students with a guide to developments in children's literature over time and across genres. This stimulating collection of critical essays written by a team of subject experts explores key British, American and Australian works, from picture books and texts for younger children, through to graphic novels and young adult fiction. It combines accessible close readings of children's texts with informed examinations of genres, issues and critical contexts, making it an essential practical book for students.

This is an ideal core text for dedicated modules on Childrens Literature which may be offered at the upper levels of an undergraduate Literature or Education degree. In addition it is a crucial resource for students who may be studying childrens literature for the first time as part of a taught postgraduate degree in Literature or Education.

Modern children's literature is currently receiving much public and critical attention. Organized to show developments in children's literature over time and across genres, this introductory guide looks at key British, American and Australian works, from picture books and texts for younger children, through to graphic novels and young adult fiction. Each chapter applies specific critical approaches, supported by explanatory boxed material and suggestions for further reading. The second edition of this established, classic text has been thoroughly revised, updated and expanded to reflect current issues in the field. It features new chapters by leading names on key topics such as canon formation, psychoanalytic approaches, fantasy, and technology, and includes an essay on children's poetry by the former Children's Laureate, Michael Rosen.

List of Contributors.- List of Boxes.- List of Figures.- Acknowledgements.- Introduction; Catherine Butler.- PART I: MAPPING THE TERRITORY.- 1. The Classic and the Canon ilÃ"