Sam Leith Explores the World of Children's Literature

Sam Leith's book, The Haunted Wood, dives into the history of what kids read.

It covers everything from old stories to modern ones like Harry Potter.

The book talks about the writers, like how some had tough childhoods themselves.

Leith likes to point out when writers don't always practice what they preach.

He praises some books while also noting debates, like when changes were made to Roald Dahl's books.

Ultimately, the book celebrates children's literature while avoiding being overly sentimental.