children's literature Flashcards
Folktales/Fairy Tales
Adventures of animals or humans and the supernatural typically characterize these stories. The hero is usually on a quest aided by other-worldly helpers. More often than not, the story focuses on good and evil and reward and punishment. Some examples of folktales and fairy tales include: The Three Bears, Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Puss-in- Boots, Rapunzel, and Rumpelstiltskin.
Fables
Animals that act like humans are featured in these stories; the animals usually reveal human foibles or teach a lesson. Example: Aesop’s Fables.
Myths
These stories about events from the earliest times, such as the origin of the world, are often considered true among various societies.
Legends
These are similar to myths except that they tend to deal with events that happened more recently. Example: Arthurian legends.
Tall Tales
These are purposely exaggerated accounts of individuals with super- human strength. Examples: Paul Bunyan, John Henry, and Pecos Bill.
Modern Fantasy
Many of the themes found in these stories are similar to those in traditional literature. The stories start out based in reality, which makes it easier for the reader to suspend disbelief and enter into worlds of unreality. Little people live in the walls in The Borrowers, and time travel is possible in The Trolley to Yesterday.
Science Fiction
Robots, spacecraft, mystery, and civilizations from other ages often appear in these stories. Most presume advances in science on other planets or in a future time. Most children like these stories because of their interest in space and the “what if ” aspect of the stories. Examples: Outer Space and All That Junk and A Wrinkle in Time.
Modern Realistic Fiction
These stories are about real problems that real children face. By finding that their hopes and fears are shared by others, young children can find insight into their own problems. Young readers also tend to experience a broadening of interests as the result of this kind of reading. It is good for them to know that a child can be brave and intelligent and can solve difficult problems.
Historical Fiction
This type of literature provides the opportunity to introduce younger children to history in a beneficial way
Biography
Reading about inventors, explorers, scientists, political and religious leaders, social reformers, artists, sports figures, doctors, teachers, writers, and war heroes helps children to see that one person can make a difference. They also open new vistas for children to think about when they choose a future occupation.
Informational Books
These are ways to learn more about something that children are interested in or something that they know little about. Encyclopedias are good resources, of course, but a book like Polar Wildlife by Kamini Khanduri also shows pictures and facts that will capture the imaginations of young children.
