This volume examines a variety of utopian writing for children from the 18th century to the present day, defining and exploring this genre in the field of children's literature. The essays discuss thematic conventions and present detailed case studies of individual works. All address the pedagogical implications of work that challenges children to grapple with questions of perfect or wildly imperfect social organizations and their own autonomy. The book includes interviews with creative writers and a bibliography of utopian fiction for children.

Dickens was known for his incredible imagination and fiery social protest. This study shows how Dickens used the fairy tale to express his political and social views and helped establish it as an important literary genre for the Victorian public.

First published in 2003. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.