Though I'm not one to gush, I have to say that I adored this project. Not only did I allot serious time and energy to revisit some of the most wonderful novels I've read, but I was able to study them in a newly comprehensive way. They became so much more than simple childhood stories to me; they became tools I could use to explore what constitutes a classic novel and use those devices for self-reflection. Some may say I took the easy way out by studying children's novels, but I feel that these stories are not just for children, though indeed every child should have them in their repertoire. However, I do not think the ideas and lessons in children's novels ever become outdated or juvenile. Imagination, though not usually seen this way, is a lifelong adventure and I sincerely enjoyed opening mine with Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and The Secret Garden.
From an academic standpoint, exploring the more mature concepts of the three novels I chose proved to be an intellectually stimulating task. Because these novels were originally targeted for children, the ideas were stated in a simple manner; refreshing to the reader who usually picks up Vonnegut and Palahniuk. It was interesting to be able to think so deeply about a sentence so clearly and explicitly stated; "'Who in the world am I?' Ah, that’s the great puzzle!" (Carroll, Alice in Wonderland, 28). If I was reading for fun, it is quite possible I could have simply read the line, thought for a moment, and continued reading. Yet, with this project, I was driven to truly absorb the meaning. Who in the world are we? Everyone is looking for their place in the world, and Carroll was very true when he names it the great puzzle. Self exploration is not just for children; it is universal and powerful theme. The fact that Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and The Secret Garden were all able to touch on it with individuality and insight in a way that is unrestricted to age is a great accomplishment.
From studying these three novels, I've come to understand that it's never a bad thing to return to children's novels with a fresh pair of eyes. I see these novels not only as fantastic reads but commendable learning tools. I feel that they will withstand the test of time as long as humankind will render their imaginations expansive as I have through the course of this classic novel study.
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