From: Jean Casey <jcasey>
Date: Mon, 05 Nov 2001 10:26:51 -0600

Ginny writes, "There's a resurgence of interest in fantasy literature. Why?"

I agree with Monica wholeheartedly and agree with all her reasons. As I prepare this morning for a fantasy booktalk, I can also say that HP has revolutionized both student and teacher attitudes toward this genre. I think also that some people have been intimidated by the idea of fantasy--getting to know and understand another world, culture, society, etc. It is sometimes hard for students, who can be very literal to make that jump--just as it is for their teachers.

HP gave us fantasy that fit well inside our "real world," from Gate 9 3/4, to Diagon Alley. AND, it was in fun. I don't have to work as hard to sell fantasy to kids. They know they can handle it. Other authors, like Susan Cooper, who writes dynamite
"High" fantasy (I know, this group has really already had THAT discussion!) have also written things like The Boggart, to make fantasy more accessible to those anchored in the concrete world. There hare many others who have accomodated the need for a connection to reality.

Fantasy is my favorite genre, too, and it's such fun now, to share it with others who've discovered it really IS accessible to them.

Jean Casey
Received on Mon 05 Nov 2001 10:26:51 AM CST