Children’s Literature Research in Kenyan Universities: Where Are We Now?
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Date
2012
Authors
Ngugi, P.Y.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Center for Enhancing Knowledge, UK
Abstract
The history of literature written and published specifically for Kenyan children began in the 1960’s with
independence from the colonial rule. Pre- colonial literature for children was oral in nature, passed
down by adults in the form of folktales, myths, songs, riddles and proverbs. During the colonial period,
children’s reading was confined to textbooks and Western literature which promoted western culture
and values. Political independence led to the development of an intellectual climate that firmly insisted
that children’s literature should work out word from the home base of the African child so that they will
not become culturally stateless persons. This paper sets out to asses and describes critical studies that
have been carried out in children’s literature at Kenyatta University. It should be noted that criticism
and reviewing of any literary genre, including children’s literature, contributes immensely to the
improved development of the literature, (Haviland, 1974: 391)
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Citation
International Journal of Arts and Commerce Vol. 1 No. 2