Children's literature has a very important place in educational programs for the young. Love for
books, stories and poetry develops through repeated exposure to books and daily opportunities to
hear stories read or told, and to choose, handle and look at books for oneself. It is noteworthy
that early and frequent contact with books helps develop future motivation to read and seems to
make the learning of reading an easier process. Just as significant are the pleasure, stimulation
and enrichment that literary experiences bring into the child's present life. Therefore, this essay
will shade more light on explaining ten things that should be considered when selecting a story
book for literature.
The first thing that should be considered when selecting a story book for literature is that it
should draws upon the child's own background, experience is something like a magnifying glass
as it focuses on and enlarges one aspect from among the multitude of experiences in which the
child is involved. Thus, carefully selected books can deepen and enlarge a child's perception and
understanding of himself and of what he sees and hears in the world around him. They enable
him to relive an experience, to think about familiar situations in a new way, and provide him
with words to describe what he thinks and feels regarding them.
Hence, the second thing that should be considered when selecting a story book for literature is
that it should be the vehicle for excursions beyond the confines of the child's immediate world,
providing vicarious experiences that might not be possible in real life. When used for this
purpose, it is essential that the concepts and emotions expressed in the book are within the realm
of the child's capacity to understand and assimilate.
Thus, the third it has been shown that a story book should further positive human relations in the
classroom. As a child identifies with literary characters, acceptance and respect for other human
beings are fostered. By living through their experiences, learning about their work and play
activities, and empathizing with their problems, fears and joys, a child is helped to relate to his
fellows.
The fourth to consider is that, the story book for literature must aid in the development of the
child's creative imagination, his powers of sympathy, and his sense of humor. It simultaneously
stimulates and helps satisfy the uniquely human need for aesthetic experience.
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