Innocence, Heterosexuality, and the Queerness of Children's Literature

Exploring the intersection of innocence and heterosexuality, this book delves into classic children's literature, analyzing works from L. Frank Baum to Stephenie Meyer. It argues that while these narratives often promote normative heterosexuality, they simultaneously obscure the complexities of sexuality, creating a paradox for young readers. The author highlights how children's literature endorses heterosexuality as the default identity, yet avoids direct discussions about sexuality, raising questions about the implications for children's understanding of these themes.