I don't normally read reviews of children's books, mostly because I can't be bothered, and because kids - my kids, anyway - are not interested in what the Guardian thinks they might enjoy. One of my two-year-old's favourite pieces of night-time reading, for example, is the promotional flyer advertising the Incredibles that I was sent, a flyer outlining some of the marketing plans for the film. If you end up having to read that out loud every night, you soon give up on the idea of seeking out improving literature sanctioned by the liberal broadsheets.
The author shares their perspective on reading children's book reviews, expressing disinterest in critical opinions from sources like the Guardian. Instead, they focus on what their own children enjoy, which often includes unconventional choices, such as promotional materials related to a film rather than traditional literature. This experience highlights the disconnect between adult literary expectations and children's preferences.
The commentary suggests that engaging with children's literature can be more about practical enjoyment than literary merit. The author emphasizes the idea that parents might find themselves reading whatever captivates their children's attention, even if it deviates from the 'improving literature' prescribed by critics, ultimately showcasing the unique tastes of young readers.
