On the Virtues of Children's Books

As a college student who still reads (and wants to write) children's books, I often run across the idea that adults shouldn't read children's books. I personally see nothing wrong with this. Just because I read children's books doesn't mean I'm not capable of reading more "mature" fiction, it just means that I can still appreciate things which children's books have that a lot of books for older people are missing. For instance:

• An optimistic view of the world. Seriously, we have enough depressing stuff in reality. It doesn't hurt to think about the good things in life every once in a while.
• Innocence. Don't you ever wish you could approach things with a childlike view without all the junk in your head?
• Simplicty. A lot of good stuff can be lost when things get too complicated.
• Fun. Sure, good quality children's books have their dark moments too, but the best ones also have parts where the characters just enjoy their lives. Other books might have this, but I think children's books do it the best.

For those of you who are missing out on this, I suggest exploring the children's book section of your library sometime (or check out some of the books in the pictures). You might actually find something really good. Good children's books (in my opinion) have depth to them that kids can't appreciate as well as adults, so it gets overlooked unless adults pitch in. Plus, if you have kids, you can enjoy reading the same books and talking about them. My parents did this when I was a kid and I loved it. It can be a great bonding experience.