Literature with an L

Children's literature is just as important as what people like to call Literature. It introduces children to the world of the written word and has as much of an effect on children as what is called Literature is supposed to have those who can read it. We can hardly expect twelve year olds, let alone five year olds, to pick up Shakespeare or Milton and understand them. Children's literature provides literature that is understandable to children. Considering it as lesser trivializes its importance in the development of children.

The question of whether children's literature is lesser can be seen in another context. I seriously doubt an author of a children's book had to get high, or low, for that matter, on substances in able to create a piece of literature that is brilliant. After all, they do need to keep the content appropriate. However, just because they didn't have to artificially enhance their imaginations doesn't mean they have an easy or trivial job. Creating a story that readers will connect with takes skill no matter who the readers are. Keeping the attention of enough children to make a children's book a success is no easy task.

A great example of a piece of literature written for children is The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick. Unique in style and engaging in content, this book is one of the most amazing children's/preteen books I have ever read. It is very well developed and sophisticated, yet easy to understand. This book commends Selznick as an author and illustrator. After reading this book, I would challenge anyone to call Selznick a lesser author or his book lesser Literature.