The Edinburgh History of Children's Periodicals

This comprehensive study chronicles the evolution of children's magazines, exploring their cultural significance and impact on young readers. The Edinburgh History of Children's Periodicals is essential for understanding this medium.

Since the inception of the first children's periodical in the 1750s, magazines have served as a crucial medium for young readers, offering an affordable and accessible way to engage with literature and form virtual communities. However, despite their significance, children's periodicals have often been overlooked in scholarly studies compared to children's literature. The Edinburgh History of Children's Periodicals aims to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive exploration of magazines aimed at young audiences from the mid-eighteenth century to the present day.

This book brings together a diverse array of periodicals from various regions including Britain, Ireland, North America, Australia, New Zealand, and India. It delves into the complexities of gender, race, and national identity, examining how these factors have influenced the portrayal of children as readers and writers. By analyzing the evolution of children's magazines, the book offers valuable insights into the ways in which young readers have shaped the content they consume and how these publications have, in turn, encouraged children to see themselves as engaged political and global citizens.

The Edinburgh History of Children's Periodicals not only charts the historical trajectory of these important publications but also reflects on their lasting impact on the literary landscape for children. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in the intersections of childhood, media, and culture, providing a nuanced understanding of how children's periodicals have contributed to the development of young readers and their identities.