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I don't change the language for children books. I don't…

“I don't change the language for children books. I don't make the language simpler. I use words that they might have to look up in the dictionary. The books are shorter, but there's just not that much difference other than that to be honest. And the funny thing is, I have adult writer friends [to…” quote by John Boyne
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“I don't change the language for children books. I don't make the language simpler. I use words that they might have to look up in the dictionary. The books are shorter, but there's just not that much difference other than that to be honest. And the funny thing is, I have adult writer friends [to whom I would say], "Would you think of writing a children's book?" and they go, "No, God, I wouldn't know how." They're quite intimidated by the concept of it. And when I say to children's books writers, would they write an adult book, they say no because they think they're too good for it.”

John Boyne

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He refuses to simplify language for children's books, believing that challenging vocabulary is valuable for young readers.

In simple terms: He keeps children's books linguistically rich.

Key Takeaway

Encourage children to explore new words.

Themes

education language development literacy

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • classroom instruction
  • parental reading
  • book publishing

Key Concepts

cognitive growth reading motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance challenge and accessibility?
  • What role does context play in comprehension?
A Different Perspective

Complex language may discourage some readers.

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