(3321) Blog #2: Chapter 2 Summary

This chapter really teaches us about how literature went through so many changes. Before recorded history (books) oral tradition occurred. Family units and tribes use to sit around campfires and share their group traditions and values through stories. These stories focused on teaching the young tradition and value, even though they were not really appropriate for children. The same problem was happening for books. The early books were not specifically developed to meet children's needs, interests, and reading levels.
Early books came prior to the mid-1400's. It was virtually impossible for children to even get a hold of these books. Not only were they expensive but the children were rarely trusted with them. It wasn't until 1450 that hornbooks were created and were used to teach reading, numbers, and prayers. These books were later replaced by the battledore, which was made from folded paper or cardboard, in the 1700's. These books also contained the alphabet, numbers, proverbs, and prayers.
The 1740's is when a major change occurred. This time is commonly referred to as the time when the idea of children's books began in Europe and North America. Due to people having more time, money, and education necessary for reading, books became more important. This also made a change in family life. The middle class was now centered more on the home and family rather than on the marketplace or the great house of nobility. Childhood was now becoming a more care-free and enjoyable period of life. This opened up a whole other world of literature, fantasy, adventure, and real people books. This allowed authors to create a new type of genre.
The same standards should be met for young adults as well, however, they should have more mature themes and characters who face complex issues that may be faced by contemporary young adults. An example of this would be a fictional book that has characters who overcome problems in ways tat are believable to the reader.
Censorship was also a thing from the past. This has always been around and doesn't really look like it is going anywhere. The only thing that makes it change is time. It never goes away but is influenced by our present social, religious, and political beliefs. Censorship changes with our present morals, values, and beliefs.
This chapter makes it clear that books help shape our children's attitudes, belief's, and family life. Getting to know a little about how children's literature came around and how it has changed, really helps to see how our children are really influenced by what they read or see. It is very important for us to have up to date books, family oriented stories, and books that teach children to become better people for the future. Values are also taught through books so we should really take this into consideration when choosing books to put in our "classroom library". And remember censorship will always be here so be careful with the books you pick.