Subject
Children -- Books and reading -- United States -- History Books
Best books
Henrietta Christian Wright
Children's Stories in American Literature, 1660-1860
"Children's Stories in American Literature, 1660-1860" by Henrietta Christian Wright is a collection of literary analyses and interpretations written in the early 20th century. This informative volume delves into the foundation of children's literature in America, specifically focusing on works created between 1660 and 1860. The likely topic of the collection is the exploration of various authors and narratives that contributed to the tapestry of American children's literature, encompassing both historical context and thematic relevance. The opening of the book sets the stage for an examination of early American literature, beginning with a fascinating account of missionary John Eliot reading Bible stories in the Mohegan tongue to Indigenous children in the 1660s. This moment underscores the significance of language and cultural exchange as Eliot endeavors to educate and inspire the local tribes. The narrative continues with discussions on the printing of the first Bible in America and highlights other early literary works, such as those by Captain John Smith, emphasizing the importance of these stories in shaping American identity and values. Through a blend of history and literature, Wright's analysis offers readers an engaging introduction to early American storytelling aimed at children, laying the groundwork for understanding how foundational texts influenced subsequent generations.
Rosalie Vrylina Halsey
Forgotten Books of the American Nursery A History of the Development of the American Story-Book
"Forgotten Books of the American Nursery" by Rosalie Vrylina Halsey is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the development of American children's literature from colonial times through the early days of the Republic. Halsey examines how children's books evolved, noting that while many of the early texts are now considered unattractive, they offer valuable insights into childhood experiences and societal values of their time. The opening of the work discusses the distinct characteristics of children's literature during the colonial period and the early years of America. Halsey reflects on the oddity of early children's books, such as chapbooks and toy-books, which were often deeply moralistic and religious in nature. She delves into the cultural and social context that shaped children's literature, highlighting the influence of Puritan values and the significance of catechisms in childhood education. The author emphasizes that these early texts, despite their perceived shortcomings, provide essential sketches of child-life in a bygone era and serve as markers of the evolution of literature designed for young audiences.
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