Taking Humor Seriously in Children's Literature

Educators and librarians are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of humor to children, especially the way it stimulates their interest in reading and enhances the quality of the reading experience. Presents quality humorous children's literature and experiences that develop children's sensitivity toward humor. Literature-based mini-units are accompanied by discussion questions and a variety of ideas and activities that emphasize the components of humorous stories. Creative librarians and teachers can use the mini-units as models to adapt other books to the children they work with daily. Each unit is followed by additional readings about the subject that include features such as cartoon-like illustrations, humorous details, exaggerated expressions, and parody. The annotated bibliography, which is divided by age group and the subjects used in the mini-units, lists additional humorous literature, describes the humorous events in each book and indicates the appropriate age levels.