Beatrix Potter and Jacques Derrida - Problematic Bedfellows in the Teaching of Children's Literature?

This article explores the particular problems of teaching ‘Children's Literature’. First, it is generally seen as marginal; secondly, and relatedly, it is seen as predominantly a women's subject; thirdly, it frequently involves texts to which students have deep attachments; and lastly, there is a reluctance to engage in the usual ‘LitCrit’. It is suggested that these problems are better viewed as opportunities, on the one hand to explore literature in a more committed and engaged way, and on the other, to relate experience meaningfully to the insights of recent critical theory.