English 2F - Children's Literature
Seminar 3 - The Nature of Children's Literature

Directions:

Think about these questions:

1. What makes children's literature different from literature written for adults?
2. How can we recognize literature written specifically for children, as opposed to literature that happens to have gotten into children's hands over the years?
3. What are some elements that we associate with children's literature?  Think of recurring patterns that children's texts have in common, with particular attention to such literary elements as characters, themes, plot structure, style and language, tone, imagery, etc.
4. Are there some things (ideas, language, imagery) that you feel absolutely don't belong in a book classified as "children's lit"?

Write a brief (1-2 paragraph) response to one or more of those questions. Include some examples of remembered stories, books or verse from your own childhood, and how you think those texts reflected the traits associated with the genre of children's lit.

Post your paragraph using the "New Topic" button.  Initial postings will be due by Mon, Sept. 8 at midnight.

Respond to at least two of your classmates' paragraphs.  When you respond, do add something to the discussion. Don't just say "I agree" or "disagree".  Give specific reasons why you feel the way you do, examples from your own childhood or observations, and other evidence. Responses are due by midnight Mon, Sept. 15.