ENCW 210 - The Magic Hour: The Hypnotic Spell of Classic Children’s and Young Adult Literature

CR: 3
What makes certain books for children endure through the decades? More easily than adults, children enter into that willing suspension of disbelief required of any meaningful experience of literature, and their experiences with books form lasting, deep, and sometimes mysterious impressions on the human psyche. Are there qualities in certain beloved works of children’s literature that transcend the particular charm of an illustration or character? How can identifying those qualities lead to illuminating conversations with and among children and young readers? How does engagement with text build communication and writing skills among young learners? The course will include both analytical and creative writing assignments. III.W, V.2, V.6b