Dark Literature for Children: Exploring the Unseen
Introduction
In the realm of children's literature, books are often celebrated for their colorful illustrations and happy endings. However, there is a fascinating and sometimes overlooked genre that delves into more complex and often darker themes. This article explores some of the most notable dark children's books and stories, examining how they challenge traditional storytelling and provide a richer, more nuanced understanding of literature for young readers.
From Grandparental Favorites to Personal Favorites
As a child, the exposure to dark literature began with stories passed down by my grandparents and my father. One notable book was the German children's book, Der Struwellpeter, which, despite its charm, had a somber tone. Similarly, a stop-motion animation movie I watched during the Christmas season in elementary school depicted a girl running away from foster care, suffering at the hands of her aunt, and ultimately freezing to death. This movie, while disturbing, reflects the serious themes that are sometimes included in children's media.
Contemporary Dark Children's Books
There are several contemporary books that delve into darker themes. Maggot Moon by Sally Gardner is a powerful story about a violent and destructive regime. Similarly, Buffalo Soldier by Tanya Landman and The Bunker Diary by Kevin Brooks explore bleak realities. These books, with their mature and often sad themes, challenge the boundaries of what is considered appropriate for young readers.
The Twilight of the Masters: Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm
When it comes to classic children's literature, the original versions by Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm are known for their darker undertones. Stories such as The Little Mermaid and Cinderella are not merely fairy tales but cautionary tales about life's harsh realities. The original Grimm stories, such as Hansel and Gretel and Rapunzel, are filled with elements of danger, loss, and survival.
Modern Autobiographies and War Stories
Another source of dark storytelling in children's literature comes from authors who wrote about their own experiences. For instance, Roald Dahl's autobiography Going Solo is largely about his experiences during World War II, which included darker and more somber moments. Michael Morpurgo's works, such as Private Peaceful and Out of the Ashes, tackle the realities of war and the devastating impact it has on individuals and communities. The following excerpt from Private Peaceful exemplifies the depth and emotional weight of these stories:
“There were several recently dug graves in the churchyard but I found only one that was freshly dug and covered with fresh flowers. I had known Anna only from a few laughing words from the light in her eyes a touch of hands and a fleeting kiss but I felt an ache inside me such as I had not felt since I was a child since my father’s death. I looked up at the church steeple a dark arrow pointing at the moon and beyond and tried with all my heart and mind to believe she was up there somewhere in that vast expanse of infinity up there in Sunday-school Heaven in Big Joe’s happy Heaven. I couldn’t bring myself to think it. I knew she was lying in the cold earth at my feet. I knelt down and kissed the earth then left her there. The moon sailed above me following behind me through the trees lighting my way back to camp. By the time I got there I had no more tears left to cry.”
– Private Peaceful, Michael Morpurgo
The excerpt from Out of the Ashes further illustrates this theme:
“I’ve been sitting here on the bed in a daze ever since. Not crying. I can’t cry. It’s me who’s done this it must be. I brought the infection back with me from Mr Bailey’s farm. Ruby or Bobs or me but whichever of us it was it had been my doing my fault. I had sentenced our animals to death. Big Josh is sitting beside me holding my hand and he’s looking so sad. I feel like he’s taking the sadness out of me and into himself leaving me numb inside. They’re going to kill them all – Jemima Jessica Hectorn Primrose all Dad’s cows all his pigs all his sheep and Little Josh.”
– Out of the Ashes, Michael Morpurgo
Conclusion
Dark literature for children challenges the notion that stories for young readers must be devoid of complex themes or traumatic experiences. These stories provide a deeper understanding of life's challenges and the resilience required to overcome them. As parents and educators, it is important to recognize the value of these stories in developing emotional intelligence and a more profound appreciation of human experiences.