Theory for Beginners: Children's Literature as Critical Thought

The Philosophy for Children movement (P4C) has recognized children's literature as a valuable philosophical work, while theory has focused on children's classics and developed literature for beginners that resembles it. Theory for Beginners explores how philosophy and theory draw on children's literature and have even come to resemble it in their strategies for cultivating the child and/or the beginner.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2020
Publisher: Fordham University Press

The Philosophy for Children movement (P4C) has recognized children's literature as a significant philosophical endeavor since its inception in the 1970s. On the other hand, theory has dedicated itself to exploring children's classics, particularly Lewis Carroll's Alice books, and has even created a literature specifically designed for beginners that shares many similarities with children's literature. In a fresh perspective, Theory for Beginners delves into how philosophy and theory have drawn inspiration from children's literature and, in some cases, adopted similar approaches to cultivating the child or the beginner. The book examines a wide range of topics, including the rise of French Theory in the United States, the pedagogical insights offered in children's picture books, such as Alison Bechdel's graphic memoir Are You My Mother? and Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events, as well as studies of queer childhood. Through meticulous analysis, Kenneth B. Kidd adeptly demonstrates how children can benefit from philosophy and how philosophy can learn from children. This thought-provoking exploration offers valuable insights into the reciprocal relationship between philosophy and children's literature, highlighting the potential for meaningful learning and growth at both the individual and societal levels.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780823289608