Research Report: [A Critique on Children's Literature]

By J.J. Calica   Team Love You Forever

Lukens, Rebecca J., A Critical handbook of Children’s Literature: Third Edition. Glendview, Illinois: Scott, Foresman and Company, 1986.

Abstract:

     A handbook that examines children’s literature, applying literary criticism and determining key elements within a children’s book. Lukens argues that illustration builds a bridge between a child’s understanding of literature and true life. Moreover she claims the cathartic power of children’s literature is closely tied to our  (the reader’s) experiences.

Description:

     “A Critical handbook of Children’s Literature” is an essay touching on the different aspects that accompany children’s literature. Luken’s touches on key issues regarding literary form and most importantly the aesthetic effect of illustration in children’s books. She states that pictures only exist in texts to help in a further the understanding of a story whether it be for character development, plot exposition or simply mood of the story. She states:

“The pictures exist to extend the textual meaning, going beyond what may be the simplicity of the words. They may give more exact information, create a mood and atmosphere by depiction of a setting, or make us care about character because dress and countenance reveal more of a person than does the mere name (27).“

     Lukens continues with the study of cognitive abilities of children in early stages of childhood. She argues that pictures have a certain role in the molding of the mind of a child. Such molding requires balance and well-defined location and purpose. She states:

“We expect color and style and story to be compatible. We ask that the placement of text and pictures [move] our eyes from left to right. The pleasing visual effect of the double-spread pages results from balance and rhythmic movement (26). “

     This rhythm not only aids in the beautiful construct of the book but also in setting tone and mood within the text. Colors and their placement are key elements in setting the mood and tone of the text. As words are read, the eye is clearly led to follow a certain path to an object in which children will compare and associate with the words written and read from the page. This connection is the main delight of children’s picture books.

     Lukens, in her handbook, points out a certain obstacle within the genre of picture books when she brings into question the common critique of literary quality. More often than not, a reader is deceived by a picture book thinking that…  “Because the text for picture books is brief, the writer of the text need not be judged by the standards of literary excellence.” Lukens combats this idea of dismissal by reiterating the true power of the written word. She relates text and illustration to body and spirit. One cannot be without the other in the genre. A weak illustration accompanied by strong literature will affect the overall aesthetic of a book. And likewise, a poor work of literature cannot and will not be saved merely by beautiful pictures in a book.

Commentary:

     Using Lukens’ ideas of children’s literature we can determine the strengths and weaknesses found in Robert Munsch’s “Love You Forever.” Through an application of ideas and criticisms that Lukens has written, it can be clearly understood as to what makes a child love this book. We will answer as to why is it so well remembered? And lastly why is this book so popular among adults today?

The theory of the importance of color, location and words is a key issue in the project we will formulate. In using her idea of rhythm and free flow of visual stimuli we can pinpoint which words and which colors truly do create a significant difference in the story.

In addition to the rhythm and flow Lukens observes the use of sound device:

“Sound devices combined with imagery and figurativeness have created a visible and audible scene. It gives us a fresh picture and the sound has strengthened the meaning and impact of the book. (202)”

     Part of our project will be based on the study of this rhythm. As we determine the scheme of word repetition and associations with sound and melody, we will find the “fresh picture” and thus have a strengthened image and thus find new meaning within the text.

As we test the strength of the story, it may be concluded that some parts may not “flow” correctly. In such a case, we can conclude either weakness in illustration or weakness in writing. This knowledge can help in determining the power and influence a child’s storybook can actually have on children and in the case of this book, adults.

     As we use images and colors in our presentation, we hope to find the common ground and experience Lukens describes in her book. The ability to evoke feeling and emotion within a children’s book is certainly evident with Robert Munsch in his book “Love You Forever.” Using commonly found items and ideas we will be able to test and determine the theories of Lukens and her criticism of children’s picture books. Doing so will not only elevate the power and meaning of the text, but allow us to better appreciate that which is written.

Resources for Future Study:

Brown, Mary E. Literature for Children. Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT. February 17, 2009.

<http://www.southernct.edu/~brownm/Gpic.html>

Hunt, Peter, ed. Understanding Children's Literature. London: Routledge, 1999.

Marantz, Sylvia S. Picture Books for Looking and Learning: Awakening Visual

Perceptions through the Art of Children's Books. Phoenix: Oryx Press, 1992.