Someone once said, everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten. Could it be said that everything you need to be can be found in children's literature? I think so. I find myself going back to books I loved and found comfort in when I was younger. There is something magical about children's literature.
Children's Literature does not shrink away from difficult topics It teaches lessons that as adults, many of us still struggle with. Authors find brilliant and succinct ways to entertain, teach and create memories we hold on to for a life time.
Donalyn Miller, author of the The Book Whisperer, lists reasons why you should read kid's books:
1. It's fun
2. It keeps your imagination active.
3. It strengthens your relationship with the children in your life who read.
4. It sets an example for the children in your life, making them more likely to become readers.
5. It clues you in on cultural references that you may have missed (both current and classical).
6. It's fast. Children's books are usually shorter than adult books, so if you don't think you have time to read, you DO have time to read children's books.
7. It allows you to read across genres. Children's books aren't limited.
8. Its like time travel--it's an easy way to remember the child you once were, when you first read a book.
9. It's often inspirational--reading about heroes and bravery and loyalty makes you want to be a better person. And couldn't we all do with some of that?
10. Did I mention that it's fun?
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Join us for our Children's Literature Book Club on the last Tuesday of each month. Contact dawn.ackroyd@ffca-calgary.com if you are interested.
