More About Picture Books...

While many are familiar with the overt enjoyment picture books bring, few are aware of their abundant underlying benefits. Reading is an activity that is central to child development, because it helps children gauge a better understanding of their environment and societal expectations (Goddard). Picture books, if executed properly, can be helpful in implementing bibliotherapy. This is defined as, “the use of written materials to gain understanding and engage in problem solving relevant to the person’s therapeutic needs” (Goddard). Books that execute bibliotherapy help children learn to handle “adult” problems beyond their comprehension. For example, many books are used to teach children about medical diagnoses, grief, clinical disorders, and death (Goddard). When children can strongly identify with a character in the story, they’re able to take on the character’s perspective and learn about these tough issues. On a more positive note, these books also help children foster self efficacy and teach coping skills (Goddard).

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Specifically, fantasy literature brings its own specific set of benefits for children. As shown in the study conducted by Angela Webb et al., greater creativity was observed in second graders who read a fantasy nutrition book opposed to a nonfiction nutrition book (Webb et al.). Fantasy literature promotes abstract thinking for students, whereas nonfiction promotes concrete, confined thinking (Webb et al.). This study additionally highlights that a main problem with our current school system is its focus on teaching subjects found on standardized tests; it often neglects to promote arts and creative development (Webb et al.). To compensate for the lack of creative instruction, it is essential for children to read books that promote creativity and divergent thinking.

Before writing a picture book, it is crucial to know the basic guidelines each book must follow. Picture books almost always contain 32 pages and are between 500-700 words (Hingston). Regardless of whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, these requirements must be met. Additionally, the typical age range for picture books is anywhere from preschool to second grade (Hingston). In terms of pacing, the introduction should be between pages 1-7, the building of the dramatic arc should occur around page 16-17, and the resolution should fall on pages 28-32 (Hingston). There are many “Do’s” and “Don’ts” to keep in mind while writing a picture book. Two main tips include to avoid childhood cliches, and to avoid explicitly teaching your intended message (Hingston). Instead, authors should incorporate this message into the story, along with absurdity, silliness, and nonsense (Hingston). 

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