How the British and American Tell Children’s Stories
If Harry Potter and Huckleberry Finn were each to represent British versus American children’s literature, a curious situation would emerge : In a literary competition for the hearts and minds of children, one is a wizard(巫师)- in - training at a boarding school in the Scottish Highlands, while the other is a barefoot boy drifting down the Mississippi, bothered by cheats, slave hunters, and thieves. One defeats evil with a magic stick, the other takes to a raft(筏)to right a social wrong.
The small island of Great Britain is an unquestionably powerhouse of children’s bestsellers: Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter, and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Significantly, all are fantasies.
American write fantasies too, but nothing like the British, says Jerry Griswold, a San Diego State University professor of children’s literature. He said, “
A.It all goes back to each country’s distinct cultural heritage. |
B.American stories are rooted in realism; even our fantasies are rooted in realism. |
C.Both boys are characterized by their unique roles, thus breathing life into the fancy stories. |
D.Meanwhile, the United States, also a major player in children’s classics, deals much less in magic. |
E.Britain’s time-honored countryside, with ancient castles and restful farms, lends itself to fairy-tale invention. |
F.Both orphans took over the world of children’s literature, but their stories unfold in noticeable different ways. |
A.Having an outing. | B.Ordering various drinks. |
C.Preparing for a party. | D.Choosing suitable drinks. |