Book: The World Treasury of Children's Literature

Overview

"The World Treasury of Children's Literature, " edited by Clifton Fadiman, is a sweeping two-volume anthology that gathers stories, poems, and folklore from many cultures and historical periods. Presented with the aim of delighting young readers while introducing them to a wide literary heritage, the collection balances familiar classics with lesser-known pieces to create a panorama of imaginative writing for children. The editor's approachable voice and careful selection make the set both a reading pleasure and a dependable reference for families and classrooms.

Content and Scope

Selections range from ancient myths and traditional folktales to nineteenth- and twentieth-century verse and short fiction, reflecting the variety of forms that have entertained and instructed children across the world. The anthology includes moral fables, trickster tales, fairy stories, heroic epics in abridged form, lullabies, and playful nonsense verse, all chosen to be accessible to a young audience while retaining the distinctive character of their origins. The two volumes are organized so that readers can browse by theme, mood, or culture, offering a sense of both continuity and contrast among different storytelling traditions.

Editorial Approach

Fadiman's editorial hand is focused on clarity, readability, and balance. Selections are presented in a style that preserves the flavor and tone of the originals while smoothing language where necessary to suit contemporary young readers. Brief introductory notes or contextual remarks occasionally accompany selections to orient readers to cultural background or to explain archaic references, but the primary aim is to let the texts speak for themselves. Attention is given to pacing and variety, so that reading sessions move naturally from the lyrical to the comic, from short pieces to longer narratives.

Themes and Highlights

Recurring themes throughout the treasury include the triumph of cleverness over brute force, the mysteries of nature, rites of passage, the rewards and pitfalls of curiosity, and the deep human need for story as a means of making sense of the world. Many pieces emphasize moral lessons in subtle ways, favoring storytelling that invites reflection rather than didactic pronouncement. Humor and whimsy are well represented alongside solemn and haunting tales, giving the anthology an emotional range that can suit different ages and reading moods. The global reach of the selections highlights common human concerns even as it celebrates distinct cultural expressions.

Use and Legacy

The set functions as a multi-purpose resource: a read-aloud treasury for families, a sourcebook for teachers planning units on folklore or poetry, and an introductory library for young readers seeking breadth. Its reputation rests on generous curation and a readable presentation that makes classic and traditional materials approachable. Over time the collection has continued to serve as an entrée into world literature for children, encouraging curiosity about other cultures and fostering lifelong reading habits by demonstrating the variety and vitality of stories told to and for young people.