Why You Should Read Children's Books, Even Though You Are So Old and Wise

By: Katherine Rundell

Narrated by: Katherine Rundell

A celebration of the joys and vital importance of children's literature for adult readers, from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Impossible Creatures.

Katherine Rundell, one of the most accomplished modern children’s writers, offers an extended essay about the pleasures and benefits of reading children’s literature as an adult.

Rundell explores how children's books ignite—and can re-ignite—the imagination; how children's fiction, with its unabashed emotion and playfulness, can awaken old hungers and create new perspectives on the world.

Infinitely wise and thought-provoking, Rundell’s book is the perfect length to listen to in one sitting.

Critic reviews

★ "Rundell offers a brilliant assessment of the importance of children’s literature for readers of all ages in a brief work that will be an essential addition to any collection of literary criticism." —Library Journal, starred review

"A passionate, persuasive, and perceptive case for embracing children’s fiction—at any age." —Kirkus Reviews

"Her engaging commentary unfolds effortlessly; it’s likely that many will devour the entire contents in one read-through, although much of her thoughtful narrative deserves further reflection." —Booklist

Covers a lot of history of children's books 📚📚📚

I was surprised by some of the books left out, like The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Or Wind in the Willows, and Nancy Drew. That said the author covers quite a bit of the history of children's literature, going back to one mention somewhere in the 1400's. Most of the hits are here....Seuss, The Hobbit, Alice in Wonderland, The Secret Garden, Little Women, Judy Blume, and Where the Wild Things Are. And she spends a good deal of time talking about fairytales in particular and all their gruesome bits.

But mostly she covers the early 1800's to the present. Kids book started out as behavioral manuals but have thankfully evolved far past that. Now they spark joy, adventure, learning, empathy, and imagination. If you shy away from kids books, you're missing out. Art, joy, new perspectives and life long learning, can be found in many places, including children's books.

If you want to dip your toes in, might I suggest Anne of Green Gables, the one narrated by Rachel McAdams is brilliant.