Deconstructing the Hero: Literary Theory and Children's Literature

Deconstructing the Hero explores the structure and meaning of one of the most popular literary genres--the adventure story. It offers analytical readings of some of the most widely read books such as Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe, and describes how these stories are influential in shaping children's perceptions and values.

Since many of these stories marginalize ethnic minority groups and women, there is the danger of instilling or perpetuating these values in an impressionable audience. Margery Hourihan shows us how we can teach our children to read more critically, helping to prevent the establishment of negative attitudes and to promote more positive values.