ENGL 112A: Literature for Children

Dr. Sigler

Response Question

Agree or disagree with the following assertion from an article criticizing picture books like Smoky Night and Rose Blanche, by noted children's literature critic Selma Lane. Use examples and details from both books to help support and explain your response.
 

"Young children's books that depict history's horrors in the name of relevance are inappropriate and often morally dishonest. Kids should be able to enjoy reading without being exposed to society's worst moments."

- Selma Lane, Horn Book, March 27, 1995 v145 n13.