Chapter 5: Traditional Lit

Traditional  can be defines as stories that are passed down from one generation to another. These can include tall tales, fairy tales, myths, legends, and so on. Some of my favorite are classics that my father used to tell me like little red riding hood, the three little bears, and Goldy locks. These stories have all been told in different ways all with the same plot points.

Like all genres, traditional literature has its ups and downs. Benefits include the perspective children can receive on their own lives and values suck as standards of behavior and  and culture. It also allows children to see a framework for literature, drama, and art. This genre has even been referred to as the "mother or all literature." There is a strong rhythm, rhyme, and other patterns. Traditional literature also provides a mix of entertainment and pleasure to the reader. It is a great gateway to get children interested in reading!

But beware! There are also some consideration of traditional literature that you need to be aware of before you introduce texts to your young readers. Unfortunately, this genre is also know for violence, antisemitism, and stereotypes.  Always preview the story first and look for such qualities. You can avoid certain stories, or bring up these topics and discuss them with your readers.

The categories include fables, myths, legends, religious stories, tall tales, and folktales. Look for accuracy, authenticity, authority, illustrative style, plot, and theme. Look for multicultural versions of some of your favorite classics.