If you were to browse the children’s book section at a store or on an online site, you’d find thousands of items. Things have definitely changed since books were first introduced for children centuries ago. Initially, children were regarded as miniature adults and the books offered were devoted to educational instruction.
The alphabet incorporated the earliest use of illustration in children’s books. Pictured is a British Victorian era (circa 1900) alphabet puzzle. For a child just learning their ABC’s, there is a surprising amount of text. While it is completely racist and and alarmingly offensive, it is evidence of a time when materials for children were devoid of fantasy, sweetness or amusement.
No comments:
Post a Comment