Animal Themes
This article is the first in an occasional series covering themes used in children's fiction. The themes are used as topics for information in non-fiction children's books. There's no doubt, some of the best loved children's stories are about animals. You only have to look at the lasting quality of A A Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh and fun cast of characters over the last (how many years?). Even adults count their favourite tales as those best remembered from childhood. These lists will often include classics such as Black Beauty, The Call of the Wild and The Wind in the Willows. Click on the highlighted links for free copies of these books in e-book form or online.
Children meet animals in different places. Not many of them are fortunate enough to encounter animals in their daily lives. Unless you live in a rural area, chances are your kids might not ever see many animals outside of a zoo or a circus, apart from pets. These are great places to take your kids to experience animals. If you know someone who lives on a farm, all the better. Consider taking your next family break on one of those farm-stay destinations. Before going to any of these places for the first time, you might like to read books showing the animals they're likely to see there. Some children are frightened when they first see a massive elephant, etc. Prepare them and raise their level of expectation by making the animals feel familiar to them. After visiting the zoo, circus, or farm you could find books with these themes and refresh their memory. Have fun making animal noises and reading to your kids. Older children might want to learn more about an unusual or exotic animal. Look for non-fiction books covering specific animals or by country of origin.
The tougher issues of cruelty to animals and vegetarianism are covered in fiction more often these days. Although this might be appropriate for older children, there are still some excellent books on these subjects for younger children. Ask the librarian or at the local book store. Try these links for suggested titles.
Animals Aloud
International Vegetarian Union - Books Youth
International Vegetarian Union - Books 4-8 Age
Vegetarian Journal - Young People's Books
If your kids feel outraged or even a little interested in vegetarianism, also provide vegetarian cookbooks, to encourage balance in their lives.
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