Jerry Griswold Libros

A lively and illustrated inquiry of how children's literature reflects the curious mind of a child—now available in paperback. Outstanding Academic Title for 2007, Choice Magazine In this engaging book, Jerry Griswold examines the unique qualities of childhood experience and their reappearance as frequent themes in children's literature. Surveying dozens of classic and popular works for the young—from Heidi and The Wizard of Oz to Beatrix Potter and Harry Potter—Griswold demonstrates how great children's writers succeed because of their uncanny ability to remember what it feels like to be a kid: playing under tables, shivering in bed on a scary night, arranging miniature worlds with toys, zooming around as caped superheroes, and listening to dolls talk. Feeling Like a Kid boldly and honestly identifies the ways in which the young think and see the world in a manner different from that of adults. Written by a leading scholar, prize-winning author, and frequent contributor to the Los Angeles Times, this extensively illustrated book will fascinate general readers as well as all those who study childhood and children's literature.

Exploring the essence of childhood, Jerry Griswold reflects on how classic and contemporary children's literature captures the unique qualities of youth. By analyzing beloved works ranging from "Heidi" to "Harry Potter," he highlights how authors evoke the feelings and experiences of being a child—such as play, fear, and imagination. Griswold illustrates that the success of these writers lies in their ability to recall and convey the wonder and simplicity of childhood moments, making their stories resonate with readers of all ages.