"A celebration of childhood reading and children’s literature for adult readers."
When Philip Pullman declares a book “one of the best surveys of children’s literature” - you take note. You grab it by both hands. And read it voraciously.
In a landscape where reading is increasingly measured, assessed and squeezed into outcomes, this is a timely and necessary reminder of why reading matters in the first place.
Sam Leith takes us on a journey through the history of children’s literature - from folklore and fairy tales to modern classics - but this is far more than a literary overview. At its heart, it’s about the power of stories to shape imagination, identity and emotional understanding. It reconnects us with the idea that reading is not just a skill to be taught, but an experience to be nurtured.
For teachers, this book offers something deeper than pedagogy. It brings you back to the why: why reading for pleasure underpins attainment, why access to books matters so profoundly, and why creating space for children to discover stories - freely and joyfully - is one of the most important things a school can do.
Leith writes with clarity and warmth, weaving insight with moments of recognition that will resonate with anyone who has ever seen a child “click” with a book. It’s a powerful reminder that the stories children encounter don’t just support learning - they stay with them, shaping how they think, feel and see the world.
A thoughtful, inspiring read for teachers, librarians and school leaders alike. And a compelling case for putting reading for pleasure back at the heart of education.
Can you remember the first time you fell in love with a book?
| Primary Genre | Books for Teachers |
*A Sunday Times, Irish Times, Financial Times, Independent, Daily Mail, TLS, Economist, Prospect, Evening Standard and New Statesman Book of the Year 2024* Can you remember the first time you fell in love with a book? The stories we read as children matter.
The Haunted Wood features in the following genres: Books for Teachers, Recommendations
Paperback. £11.69, down from the £12.99 cover price. In Stock.
The Haunted Wood was written by Sam Leith and published by Oneworld an imprint of Oneworld Publications
The Haunted Wood has 592 pages
£11.69, reduced from £12.99. In Stock.