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An essential text that provides students with a dynamic, sophisticated and controversial look at the critical representation of the child in children''s literature, arguing for a more open and eclectic approach: one that celebrates the diverse power, appeal and possibilities of children''s literature. Drawing on psychoanalytically informed perspectives, David Rudd shows students how theory can be both exciting and liberating.This is a thought-provoking supplementary text for modules on Children''s literature or literary theory which may be offered at the upper levels of an undergraduate literature degree. In addition it is a stimulating resource for advanced students who may be studying children''s literature or literary theory as part of a taught postgraduate degree in literature.>
List of contents
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgements
Note on the Text
Introduction: An Energetics of Children's Literature
PART I: THE IMAGINARY
1. Many Happy Returns: To Freud, to Rose, the Child and its Literature
2. Peter Pan and the Riddle of Existence
PART II: THE SYMBOLIC
3. Holes and Pores: Slipping Between the Cracks of Social Criticism
4. Hiding in the Light: Perry Nodelman and the Hidden Adult
PART III: THE REAL
5. Home Sweet Home and the Uncanny: Freud, Alice and the Curious Child
PART IV: RSI
6. Fantasy and Realism Contained: From Fortunatus' Cap to the Mobius Strip
7. The Children's Book Not Suitable for Children?
Coda
Notes
Glossary
Bibliography
Index.
About the author
D. Rudd
