Defining children’s literature is tricky.
Could be included:
- a reference to the language that is particular to literature for 0-18yrs.
- the multiple formats that characterise communication today and for future students.
- the elements that amuse, entertain, inform and attract children to literature.
- the ability for literature to empower readers with technical skills and cognitive knowledge.
- the enduring nature of children’s literature to hold a place in our memories as adults.
- the increasing complexity of language that occurs from 0-18yrs.
- to learn about their own and others cultures.
A definition that includes all of these elements would be unwieldy and complicated. In some of the readings in this module, academics describe writing a definition as difficult. I’m not sure I would ever be satisfied with my own definition either. My simple attempt is: It is literature written for and enjoyed by children.