Sam Leith's 'The Haunted Wood' Explores the Evolution of Childhood Through Literature

In 'The Haunted Wood: A History of Childhood Reading,' Sam Leith, published by Oneworld for £30, delves into how ideas about childhood have influenced children's literature. He highlights that prior to the 18th century, due to high infant mortality rates, children were not regarded as valuable. Early literary works prioritized moral lessons, with thinkers like Rousseau challenging societal perceptions of youth. By the mid-19th century, views transformed, ushering in a 'golden age' for children's literature. Leith evaluates texts such as Lewis Carroll's 1865 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' and considers Roald Dahl's impact despite his challenging demeanor. The book also addresses historical factors like compulsory education and societal shifts, tracing the development of child characters from mere vessels to empowered individuals.