Sunday 21 April 2013

Visit The Library For Illustrated Childrens Books

By Patty Summers


Generations of children have spent hours of their young lives enjoying the beautiful illustrations in books designed especially for them. Illustrated childrens books are those that have text, but are also enhanced by artwork. This can be anything from a simple line drawing to a full scale water color that has been done for that particular book.

It is a good idea to set aside time each day to read. This should begin within a few weeks of the babies birth. Even the smallest infant will enjoy listening to their mother or father's voice reading to them. As the child gets a little older they will soon enjoy looking at the pictures in a book.

In the late 1800's the wildly popular Alice books by author Lewis Carroll had beautiful illustrations. They quickly became collectors items as families held on to their copy to pass on to future generations. The children were captivated by the delightful pictures of the main characters of the story. It was one of the first occasions in which the reader had illustrations to connect to the characters. Instead of just using their imagination they had an image to show them what Alice, the Mad Hatter and everyone else looked like.

There are so many different styles of illustrations to choose from and no one is really better than another. Studies have shown that children enjoy looking at everything. This includes traditional drawings, water color and oil paintings, abstracts and even silhouettes. Their brains are ready to accept just about anything and they can pick up details that adults often miss. They are so careful to look at the pictures so closely, they can often construct their own unique story to go with the illustrations.

A child has no boundaries to their imagination. Given some really good books they will spend hours pouring over the pictures and picking up every detail. Parents need to slow down and allow their children to really embrace the magic of childhood. This includes the opportunity to look at well illustrated materials and use their imagination.

Each country offers awards for the best illustrated children's book. Parents may want to check out the different entries each year and also the past winners. Turning the pages of a beautifully illustrated book is such a pleasure and is one of the most special moments between a parent and their child.

Finding books with not only good text, but also engaging illustrations can be a challenge. One author who never disappoints is Richard Scarry. His works have become classics in the realm of children's literature. The animal characters are fun and friendly and there are some excellent messages to the young readers. The illustrations really seem to bring the characters to life and it is no wonder they are such a favorite.

Youngsters today have just as many great stories to enjoy. Characters such as Franklin the turtle, Rupert Bear and the Backyardigans are featured in many great books. Children love to see their favorite friends come to life on the pages. Illustrated childrens books are as popular today as they have ever been and are helping to create a new generation of avid readers.




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