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Harry Potter books 'boring for child readers'

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Published Date: 19 May 2008
HARRY POTTER has been branded boring and inappropriate for young readers.
Britain's Children's Laureate Michael Rosen said the books did not "grab me personally". He said the stories had complex narratives and most young children would struggle to cope with their challenging and often sinister themes.

He added: "Whereas authors like Enid Blyton are hand-holding narrators who lead children into safe environments, JK Rowling is more of an adult writer in that she leaves you hanging in the air at the end of chapters with no idea what is going to happen next."

He would not choose to read the books to his own children, he said, because he did not want to bore them. He said the books deserved credit for encouraging a generation of children to read, but feared their success might prevent youngsters discovering other authors.





The full article contains 147 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
Page 1 of 1

 
1

Bravetart,

19/05/2008 14:49:16
Jealousy is never pleasant event to witness.

Can anyone name, without the help of Google, one of Michael Rosen's books?

Harry Potter might not be literary genius to these snobs but has given great joy to millions of children. To dismiss their beloved books as "boring" is churlish indeed.
2

Kirsty Boyd-Williamson,

New Town 19/05/2008 18:58:14
Rosen is a third-rater compared to Michael Morpurgo.
Additionally, Rosen is one of those ghastly people who sports a moustache and beard.
3

Biker,

Ayr 19/05/2008 20:36:26
I agree with you both, well said. A very stupid man.
4

Michele Magic,

Florida, USA 19/05/2008 23:32:38
Wow. Bravetart you nailed it!! I've never heard of the man, and I'm a professional journalist.

In addition, I have to laugh: "JK Rowling ... leaves you hanging in the air at the end of chapters with no idea what is going to happen next." Well DUH!!! That's the whole idea - getting someone to go on to the next chapter i.e., actually READING the WHOLE book!! Love you JK and love YOU Harry and friends!!!
5

Kirsten5775,

Crisfiels, Maryland 20/05/2008 00:24:42
I think Michael Rosen has lost his mind I have 4 kids ages 16,12,12,9 and I am 33 years old and we all love JK Rowling work, we think she is brilliant. At the age of 6 my twins started reading the book with help. We also listen to the audio books alot. We have gone thru the hole set 4 times. If it was not for JK I could almost bet that they would not enjoy reading that much. So all that is left to say is We love you JK Rowling can not wait to read more of your work...

 

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