Children’s Literature Part I

BOOKS FOR YOUNG GIRLS

Let’s talk about children and literacy. We all know that cell phones and other personal electronic devices have replaced books for most children. When my husband and I see young families at restaurants, we notice that 9 out of 10 children have their faces in their phones (usually the parents do too, but that’s another issue). Now I could have a blog on how this practice alienates family members from one another, harming the mental health of the individuals, the family, and society as a whole, but for my purposes today I will simply and gently suggest that children put their faces in a BOOK every day! Afterall, a book is easier on young (and old) eyes than a screen, it doesn’t have to be charged, and it doesn’t come with distractions such as rings and pings. What a great concept, the book! It’s been around a really long time and has formed the educational foundation for millions of humans. Reading stories increases vocabulary, encourages creativity, empathy, problem solving ,and critical thought! Whew!! It also teaches children about their topics of interest and educates them about other places they may or may never visit.

As a child I read some wonderful books that still have an impact on me today. I remember reading the Meg mystery books by Holly Ann Walker. The ones I still recall are “Meg and the Secret of the Witches’ Staircase,” and “Meg and the Mystery in Williamsburg.” The setting of Colonial Williamsburg captivated my imagination, and I was convinced that if I went there it would be just like I were back in time in the 1700’s. When I visited the colonial capital decades later as an adult, I felt the joy of seeing a place that had only existed in my mind until then. I absolutely love Colonial Williamsburg, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, St. Augustine and all the wonderful historical sites along the east coast, and I visit and support historic preservation as much as I can. It all started with a children’s mystery book when I was 8.

Another memorable book series from my childhood was the Misty series by Marguerite Henry, which began with “Misty of Chincoteague.” I remember crying while reading this book, overcome with affection and sadness for the horses who were separated. I read all the books in the series, and when I was about 10, my parents drove me to Chincoteague and Assateague, Virginia, to see the setting for the series that was the object of my literary devotion. While I was appreciative to see the coastal illustrations come to life before my eyes, I was dreadfully disappointed that we did not see a single wild horse that day! Surely, my parents must have been frustrated to have driven over 6 hours, only to see me letdown about the lack of a horse siting. My father assured me they were all happily living in the wild with their families and avoiding people, and that explanation sufficed.

My husband and I are blessed with three granddaughters, and one of the many joys of grandparenthood is sharing the treasured books from my girlhood with them. I gave a copy of “Misty of Chincoteague” to my oldest granddaughter Riley about a year ago. At the time she was not especially fond of reading, but I knew that she was obsessed with horses and hoped this book might pique her interest. I think the book may have sat on the shelf just below her many model horses for several months before she picked it up. But one day she opened it! She loved the book, especially the illustrations, and she finished it and has even moved on to the next book of the series. Lucky girl, unlike her grandmother, Riley HAS seen wild horses! Her parents took her on a wild horse tour on the Outer Banks a couple years ago, and she saw some of the horses who may even be descendent from the wild horses of Misty’s day. I am so proud and thrilled to share her review of “Misty of Chincoteague” with you.

“Misty of Chincoteague” by Marguerite Henry reviewed by Riley Ann Hanlon age 9