2022 Book Links Annual Lecture in Children’s Literature
This lecture by Dr Robyn Sheahan – Bright will survey a range of contemporary responses to social issues in children’s literature, and how social activism is reflected in texts by both Australian and international authors. It will canvas the concerns explored in works which are variously provocative, endearing, passionate, and innovative. In short, it will offer an alphabet of themes in stories which do what the very best works of children’s literature have always done – to challenge young readers to empathise, be curious, and to think deeply about others, rather than becoming complacent, unimaginative and unfeeling. Such stories encourage children and young people to bear witness to the reality of the world around them and ultimately to contribute to society as global citizens.
