Should We Burn Babar?: Essays on Children's Literature and the Power of Stories : Book Review

"Should We Burn Babar?" by Herbert R. Kohl is an intriguing and thought-provoking book that explores the influence of children's literature on young minds. Kohl raises important questions about whether beloved classic books perpetuate harmful stereotypes and biases, urging readers to critically analyze the messages embedded in these stories.

The author's exploration begins with the popular children's book character Babar the Elephant, critiquing its portrayal of colonialism and imperialism. Kohl argues that exposing children to narratives like Babar may shape their understanding of power dynamics and reinforce harmful notions of domination. He emphasizes the need for adults to engage with children's literature not only for entertainment but also to evaluate the values it presents.

Throughout the book, Kohl delves into various classic books and fairy tales, carefully examining the ideologies they may transmit. He argues that books have the power to shape children's perspectives on race, gender, and social norms, highlighting the importance of educators and parents actively addressing any problematic content. By encouraging reflection on readers' own childhood reading experiences, Kohl prompts critical discussions with children about the books they encounter.

"Should We Burn Babar?" initiates crucial conversations about the media consumed during the formative years of childhood. Kohl's writing is accessible and engaging, making it suitable for both educators and parents. The book serves as a call to action, underscoring the need for increased awareness and scrutiny of the books we share with young readers. Ultimately, Kohl advocates for a more inclusive and equitable literary landscape.

In conclusion, "Should We Burn Babar?" by Herbert R. Kohl invites readers to critically assess the influence of children's literature. The book challenges the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and biases, advocating for greater awareness and examination of the books we expose young minds to. It serves as a catalyst for important conversations and encourages a more inclusive and equitable approach to children's literature.

What are readers saying?

"Should We Burn Babar?" written by Herbert R. Kohl is an engaging book that delves into the complex themes of racism, cultural appropriation, and the influence of children's literature on the shaping of young minds. Reviews for this book showcase a wide range of opinions, highlighting the thought-provoking nature of Kohl's work.

Some reviewers highly commend Kohl for his insightful analysis and his ability to shed light on important issues. They appreciate his examination of the Babar series and its perpetuation of colonialism and negative stereotypes about non-Western cultures. Readers find this book to be eye-opening and an essential critique of children's literature.

On the other hand, there are readers who disagree with Kohl's arguments. They feel that the book is overly sensitive and that Kohl may be reading too much into the Babar series. These readers perceive the book as an attack on cherished childhood stories and criticize what they perceive as an attempt to censor or ban certain books.

Some readers find the book to be well-researched and informative, praising Kohl's ability to present historical context and provide nuanced analysis. They appreciate his effort to encourage critical thinking about the media that children consume, specifically literature. These readers believe that "Should We Burn Babar?" raises important questions about representation and cultural sensitivity.

However, there are also readers who believe that Kohl's arguments lack depth and seem one-sided. They find the book to be overly preachy and feel that the author disregards the fact that children's literature often serves primarily as entertainment rather than education.

BookDiscussion CulturalControversy LiteraryCriticism