My answer to this was simply, and loudly "NO", but unfortunately they require a reason for my no and that reason must come to approx. 2500 words! So, looking at some of the reading I have done, I can back it up using the following points:
1) Nostalgia - that is that the adult reader relates to certain nostalgic memories
2)Fun/Frivolity - picture books, comics & graphic novels
3)Age: human condition is linear regardless of age; perception between child & adult readings
4)Categorisation of 'children's' books
From here I am stuck. I have the general idea - out in the ether - of what I want to say but would love some feedback by anyone as to what your thoughts are in regards to why, as an adult you read children's books. What feeling do you get from reading them? What do you get out of reading them? Those sorts of questions. Also think of children's books as a whole such as picture books. Are the books that you read 'children's' books or 'young adult'?
I'd be interested to see how many of you approach this question as well as once you have thought past your original response to the idea of is children's books just for them. It is a very problematic area of study as our conditioned responses are often the most difficult to explain or critique.
1 comment:
It may be too late for this but here we go. For me the reasons for reading children's literature are many and varied. To relive childhood memories, snuggling up to parents while escaping to fairy kingdoms, travelling to other worlds etc. Going back and reading books that I hax to read in school and re-reading them with new eyes and a fresh mind. Pure utter enjoyment. I have not read a book with an academic mindset since leaving school, but the reasons as far as I can see would be seeing if the book was suitable for its target audience, learning how a good children's book is written, or how a bad one is written. gaining exposure to differnt writting styles. Seeing how important illustrations can be and the very important part they can play. There are probably many other reasons but that is what comes to mind. Personally I read children's books because I am a child at heart and I love them
Post a Comment