Literature is a textually transmitted disease, normally contracted in childhood.
In her book "Touch Magic: Fantasy, Faerie & Folklore in the Literature of Childhood," Jane Yolen explores the intrinsic connection between literature and childhood. She suggests that literature is like a disease, one that children often become susceptible to early in their lives. This metaphor implies that once exposed to the magic of stories, readers develop a lifelong passion for them, akin to an infection that shapes their imaginations and influences their development.
This idea highlights the transformative power of literature in a child's life. The narratives, myths, and folklore encountered during formative years not only entertain but also instill values, stimulate creativity, and enrich emotional understanding. Yolen's perspective emphasizes the importance of fostering a love for reading among young audiences, as it can profoundly impact their worldview and growth into adulthood.