November 7, 2012 – March 22, 2013
Hirshland Exhibition Gallery, Carl A. Kroch Library, Cornell University

In recent years literature for children has seen a tremendous surge in the public consciousness, and many concerned adults have spoken out against what they perceive as a growing trend towards “darkness” in children’s books. Sex, drinking, drugs, violence, death and even magic are often cited as dangerous themes from which young readers should be protected. However, if one looks at the history of writing for children, it becomes clear that those elements have been present from the very beginning. This exhibition will explore the vast wonderland of children’s literature, shedding new light on the shadows lurking in the rabbit holes.

Information for visitors | View the online exhibition

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

5 p.m., Lewis Auditorium, Goldwin Smith Hall

“The Ceremony of Innocence is Drowned,” by M.T. Anderson.
Anderson is an American author of picture books, pre-teen books, and young-adult novels. He is the 2006 winner of the National Book Award for Young People's Literature.

Reception immediately following:

6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections
Hirshland Gallery, Level 2B Carl A. Kroch Library

This lecture and reception is funded through the generous support of the Stephen ’58 MBA ’59 and Evalyn Edwards ’60 Milman Exhibition Fund, the Nathan Zimelman endowment, and Jon and Virginia Lindseth ’56.