History of Children's Literature

By Jessal

  • John Newbery Opens Bookstore

    John Newberry opened a book store in St. Pauls Churchyard in London

  • First American Children's Book

    A Wonder Book for Boys and Girls written by Nathaniel Hawthorne

  • Lewis Carroll wrote Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

  • Lewis Caroll Through the Looking Glass

  • Pinocchio Published

    Carlo Collodi’s Pinocchio was published in Italy and gained popularity across English speaking countries.

  • Child Labor Laws Passed

    The first child labor laws were implemented, allowing children to attend school, leading to increased literacy and a surge in children's book publishing.

  • Macmillan Launches Children's Book Department

    Louise Bechtel Seaman became the head of the first U.S. children’s book department at Macmillan.

  • John Newbery Medal Established

    The John Newbery Award was established by the American Library Association.
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    First Children's Book Editors

    Helen Dean Fish and May Massee became the first children’s books editors.

  • Caldecott Medal Established

    This award was created to honor distinguished picture book illustration.
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    Expansion of Children's Literature

    Children’s and young adult books became more widespread in libraries, homes, and schools. Picture books and literature for young readers became more sophisticated and diverse in format.

  • Children’s Book Press Founded

    Harriet Rohmer established the press to publish bilingual picture books and reflect cultural diversity.

  • Just Us Books Founded

    A small press dedicated to increasing representation of African American experiences in children’s literature.

  • Low Diversity in Published Books Noted

    A study by Bishop revealed only 3 to 4% of children’s books published in early 90s featured people of color.