Designed for classes in children's literature in English and education departments and in library schools, the emphases in this book are on understanding children and their needs, on perspectives and background, on criteria and types of literature, and on artists and authors. The first part provides an overview of children's needs and interests, the range of books for children, types of and criteria for evaluation of children's literature, and history and trends. The second part discusses artists and their illustrations, and includes a chapter on books for the youngest children. Types of literature are explored in the third part: folk tales, including tall tales; fables, myths, and epics; modern fantasy; poetry; modern and historical fiction; and biography and informational books. The fourth part deals with methodology, discussing the role of the adult and the techniques to be used in introducing children to literature and in evaluating and encouraging their responses to literature. The fifth part considers areas and issues related to children including censorship, research, children and television, and mainstreaming. Appendixes include book selection aids, adult references, publishers and their addresses, children's book awards, and a pronunciation guide. (HOD)