Arnaud Berquin facts for kids
Arnaud Berquin (born September 1747 in Bordeaux, France – died 21 December 1791) was a French author who wrote books especially for children. He is known for creating stories that were popular with young readers and their families.
Contents
His Most Famous Work
Berquin's most well-known book was L'Ami des Enfans, which means "The Children's Friend." It was published in parts between 1782 and 1783. This book was so popular that it was translated into English soon after.
The English Translation
The English version was translated by Mary Stockdale and published in London. It was called The Looking-glass for the Mind, Or, Intellectual Mirror. This book came out in 1783 and 1784. Some parts of the original French text were changed to make them more suitable for children at that time.
Popularity and Style
Berquin's work stayed popular for many years, even until the mid-1800s. His stories were different from many others because they focused on everyday life.
- His books did not include fairy tales or other fantasy stories.
- Instead, they showed events that could happen to children in their own lives.
Reading as a Family Activity
Berquin believed that reading should be something families do together.
- Some of his "stories" were actually short plays.
- These plays had different parts for every member of the family to read aloud.
This idea helped families feel more connected. Berquin's main message was that parents and children should live in harmony. Parents would look after their children's needs, and children, by behaving well, would bring joy to their parents.
