Reading fairy tales and reader formation

Abstract

During the last few years children’s literature has been in the limelight and has freed itself from the pedagogical traits imposed on the reader even at its start. The literary text opens the way to “leisure reading” brought forth by fantasy, curiosity and mystery. These characteristics challenge the reader throughout the entire text when s/he tries to link the literary work with life, day-to-day living, emotions or the simple pleasure of interacting with the work of art. These factors actually trigger the aesthetic pleasure caused by reading and gradually broaden the reader’s expectations. Since fairy tales provoke an intense range of mystery and magic elements, they are actually relevant works that provide an early engagement with young readers. They cause the activation of fantasy, imagination and reflection which are relevant presuppositions in the formation of skilled readers. The importance of fairy tales concerning literary education since the first years of life is discussed.