Children's Books in Children's Hands : An Introduction to Their Literature: Examination Copy

Offers a comprehensive approach to teaching children's literature by providing appropriate depth, and using full-color illustrations from outstanding children's books. Unlike books that simply describe a great many children's books, this book takes the reader inside the workings of children's literature, focusing on ways literature elicits responses from young readers, genre by genre and book by book. A resource for pre- and in-service teachers, librarians, and all who seek to encourage children to enter the world of books. Part I orients the reader to the study of children's literature, with chapters on children's personality and intellectual development, literary elements of children's literature, and reader response theory. Part II surveys children's books by genre. Each chapter in this section outlines the historical development of a particular genre, examines its literary qualities, reviews outstanding works, and sets out criteria for selecting work in the genre. Part III shows how to create a literature-based classroom through activities, classroom libraries, book discussions, and use of literature in the curriculum. Chapters in this part provide extensive, annotated lists of recommended books. Other features include comments from authors and illustrators, boxes on controversial issues, teaching ideas, and activities for readers of the text. Appendices list award-winning titles, professional organizations, publishers, children's magazines, and related Web sites. Includes color photos and illustrations. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR In this book the authors seek to explain the vital importance of sharing ideas with the young through children's literature and to nurture a richer appreciation of the books themselves.