Rediscovering the Enchantment of Children's Literature as Experienced by Liadh Blake
# Discovering New Pleasures in Old Places: Rediscovering the Magic of Children's Fiction During Lockdown
When the first lockdown rolled around, I eagerly anticipated diving into my towering pile of books I'd been yearning to read. I envisioned the hours I'd spend engrossed in page after page, imagining myself finishing novel after novel. Boy, was I mistaken. It turns out, the lack of routine threw a wrench in my reading plans, and I found myself rarely in the right headspace to delve into a good book during lockdowns.
Frustrated by my sudden inability to immerse myself in literature, I turned to a familiar but forgotten genre: children's fiction. I hadn't picked up a children's book since my own carefree childhood days. With my pandemic-induced reading block, the simple language and captivating storytelling of children's novels was just what the doctor ordered, providing the perfect escape without compromising on quality.
Since my return to children's fiction, I've been enchanted by a literary wonderland that seems to have vanished from adult fiction: an adventure-filled realm brimming with magic and a pure, unbridled sense of excitement and curiosity about the world. Here are the books that captured my heart at the age of 21:
The Girl and the Ghost by Hana Alkaf
This might very well have been the best book I read in 2020. As a half Malaysian-Chinese individual myself, I was elated to see a book penned by a Malay author on the shelf, and even more so that it was nestled comfortably within the children's section! I can't help but wish this book had existed when I was a child. With its emphasis on feminism, a Muslim main character, strong female friendships, and representation of Malaysian culture woven throughout its cast of beautiful folklore, this book is a triumph.
The Runaways by Ulf Stark
This charming, heartwarming tale follows the connection between a grandson and his grandfather, showcasing their unique bond and understanding. The book moved me to tears with its exquisite illustrations and poignant portrayal of human connection.
The Time Traveller and the Tiger by Tania Unsworth
From the very first page, I was hooked on this exhilarating adventure! Elsie travels back in time to 1940s British India, where she learns about the complex relationships between colonizers and natives, the destructive tradition of poaching, and the outdated beliefs surrounding girls. This feminist historical fiction is filled to the brim with exhilaration, adventure, and a mission to save the king of the jungle.
Tom’s Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce
I can't believe I missed out on this timeless children's classic! This magical novel, which includes a touch of time travel, follows Tom as he is spellbound by the enchanting world of the midnight garden, accessible only for a fleeting hour each night, when the old grandfather clock strikes thirteen!
The Terrible Thing That Happened to Barnaby Brocket by John Boyne
This quirky fable centers around themes of familial rejection and discovering your own tribe. A whimsical journey, we follow Barnaby as he befriends a motley crew of eccentric characters, learning the importance of embracing your authentic self.
All these books can be found in our Children's 8-12 section. So whether you're seeking a dash of magic, a hint of adventure, or a dash of diversity, look no further – these books have got you covered!
Discovering a newfound love for children's literature during the lockdown, I found solace in home-and-garden books that transports me to a delightful world. In this whimsical realm, books like 'The Girl and the Ghost' by Hana Alkaf, 'The Runaways' by Ulf Stark, 'The Time Traveller and the Tiger' by Tania Unsworth, 'Tom’s Midnight Garden' by Philippa Pearce, and 'The Terrible Thing That Happened to Barnaby Brocket' by John Boyne are all nestled within our home-and-garden library, seamlessly melding adventure, magic, and diversity for a captivating lifestyle experience.
