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The Invention of Childhood

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The Invention of Childhood

By: Hugh Cunningham
Narrated by: Michael Morpurgo
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About this listen

Written by Hugh Cunningham and presented by award-winning children's author Michael Morpurgo, this genuinely ground-breaking history of British childhood teaches us about the key elements that have shaped children's lives.

The Invention of Childhood explores how gender, geography and ethnicity has impacted the development of children throughout the ages. Beginning from the year 1000, Cunningham studies the many important events in history for our children, ranging from Britain's earliest child-care guru in the Middle Ages to the first ever Foundling Hospital in the 18th Century. This hugely enjoyable piece of teaching that delves into the idea of how childhood has been constantly reinvented through the centuries, and why the role of children in society continues to obsess us today.

Fascinating and thought-provoking, it will appeal to parents, grandparents and anyone who has ever been a child themselves.

©2011 BBC Worldwide (P)2011 BBC Worldwide Anthropology Children's Studies Europe Great Britain Social Sciences Sociology England Middle ages

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Critic reviews

"It's a gem." ( The Guardian)
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Beautifully written and narrated and such a timely reminder of the importance of child voice in order for the youth to facilitate their future, remembering that it is they themselves that are their own expert. A pleasure to listen to.

Beautiful

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I had already read the book, but the recording is more extensive. I really enjoyed it and am left mulling over the place of children and childhood in modern society as I consider the lessons of history.

Insightful discussion

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I have listened to this several times, it's fascinating and very well presented. I would recommend it to anyone interested in history.

Excellent

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A great introduction into the history of childhood in the UK, well written and read.

An excellent and fascinating insight

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