Emer O'Sullivan traces the history of children's literature studies, from the enthusiastic internationalism of the post-war period - which set out from the idea of a world republic of childhood - to modern comparative criticism.

Learning How to Feel explores the ways in which children and adolescents learn not just how to express emotions that are thought to be pre-existing, but actually how to feel. The volume assumes that the embryonic ability to feel unfolds through a complex dialogue with the social and cultural environment and specifically through reading material. The fundamental formation takes place in childhood and youth. A multi-authored historical monograph, Learning How to Feel uses children's literature and advice manuals to access the training practices and learning processes for a wide range of emotions in the modern age, circa 1870-1970. The study takes an international approach, covering a broad array of social, cultural, and political milieus in Britain, Germany, India, Russia, France, Canada, and the United States. Learning How to Feel places multidirectional learning processes at the centre of the discussion, through the concept of practical knowledge. The book innovatively draws a framework for broad historical change during the course of the period. Emotional interaction between adult and child gave way to a focus on emotional interactions among children, while gender categories became less distinct. Children were increasingly taught to take responsibility for their own emotional development, to find 'authenticity' for themselves. In the context of changing social, political, cultural, and gender agendas, the building of nations, subjects and citizens, and the forging of moral and religious values, Learning How to Feel demonstrates how children were provided with emotional learning tools through their reading matter to navigate their emotional lives.

Johanna Spyri's "Gritli's Children" is a joyful novella written by the acclaimed Swiss author best known for her classic work, "Heidi." Spyri's lesser-known gem portrays the moving story of Gritli, a tough young girl, and her adventures in the Swiss Alps. Gritli, an orphaned youngster living in a remote mountain community with her grandfather, opens the novella. Gritli's existence is marked by hardship and loneliness until she is befriended by Madle, another country girl. They develop a deep and lasting bond that provides peace and companionship in the midst of life's trials. The spectacular grandeur of the Alpine environment and the simplicity of rural life are captured in Spyri's expressive words. The fundamental themes of the novel focus around the value of friendship, perseverance, and the healing power of nature. Readers are treated to a moving narrative that praises the strength of the human spirit as Gritli and Madle embark on numerous journeys and endure life's hardships together.