Children's books and reading

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

71774

Title

Children's books and reading

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Montrose J. Moses offers a comprehensive history of children's literature, tracing its evolution from moralistic primers to modern educational texts. This scholarly work examines the shift from didactic preaching to the cultivation of imagination, analyzing key English and American authors, the impact of social reforms, and the critical role of libraries in shaping young readers' tastes and cultural development.

Summary up to 500 words

In *Children's Books and Reading*, Montrose J. Moses presents a comprehensive historical and critical survey of juvenile literature, tracing its evolution from early moral instruction to a more democratic, nature-focused approach. Moses argues that the expansion of elementary education fundamentally altered the genre, necessitating a shift from pure imagination to the provision of factual information. He critiques this trend, particularly in America, as an 'educational pest' that prioritizes utility over the cultivation of taste and independent thought. The text contrasts the English and American trajectories, noting how the English tradition eventually embraced the 'back to nature' philosophy influenced by Rousseau, while American literature often succumbed to a didactic impulse. Moses provides extensive tables of English writers, such as Mrs. Marcet and Mrs. Gatty, who bridged the gap between adult and juvenile concerns, and American contributors who faced similar challenges. A significant portion of the work is dedicated to library science. Moses contends that while librarians must guide children toward better literature, they should not restrict access entirely. He believes that personal contact with books is essential for fostering independent taste, warning against the 'guillotine method' of censorship or the rigid selection committees seen in Germany. Instead, he advocates for a gradual substitution of lower-quality reading with higher motives and stronger styles. The book concludes with extensive bibliographical notes and lists of recommended titles, serving as both a historical record and a practical guide for librarians, teachers, and parents. Ultimately, Moses asserts that the best books alone will create the best taste, urging educators to trust in the potential of the child's voluntary desire for expression and culture rather than relying solely on mechanical instruction.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/71774.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg71774.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-07-12 13:11 UTC

Categories

• Children's Literature
• Children's Books and Reading