By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

In "Make Believe: On Telling Stories to Children," Mac Barnett, the newly appointed National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, delivers a fervent and insightful manifesto that challenges the prevailing attitudes toward children's literature. This work is not merely a collection of essays; it is a clarion call to recognize children's books as a legitimate and profound art form, deserving of the same critical attention and respect afforded to adult literature.

Barnett's central thesis is both compelling and provocative: children are not incomplete adults but fully realized individuals capable of deep engagement with complex narratives. He argues that the current landscape of children's literature is often marred by condescension and didacticism, with many books serving more to placate adult sensibilities than to genuinely connect with young readers. This perspective is eloquently summarized in a review from Kirkus Reviews, which describes the book as "a loving sermon on the rewards of children's books" and highlights Barnett's celebration of the "boundless genius of children." ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/mac-barnett/make-believe-4/?utm_source=openai))

One of the most striking aspects of "Make Believe" is Barnett's critique of the commercialization and commodification of children's literature. He laments the prevalence of books that prioritize marketability over artistic integrity, resulting in a glut of titles that underestimate the intelligence and emotional depth of their intended audience. This sentiment is echoed in a review from Publishers Weekly, which notes Barnett's assertion that "children's publishing operates without any meaningful participation from children" and his critique of the industry's tendency to cater to adult nostalgia rather than children's needs. ([publishersweekly.com](https://www.publishersweekly.com/978-0-316-60112-2?utm_source=openai))

Barnett's writing is both accessible and erudite, blending humor with scholarly insight. His analysis of classics like "Goodnight Moon" serves to illustrate his points effectively, demonstrating how truly great children's literature resonates on multiple levels and withstands the test of time. As noted in a review from The Book Nut, Barnett's work is "entertaining, educational, and a delight to read," making it a must-read for anyone involved in the creation, dissemination, or consumption of children's books. ([thebooknut.com](https://thebooknut.com/2026/03/14/make-believe-on-telling-stories-to-children/?utm_source=openai))

However, the book is not without its shortcomings. At times, Barnett's arguments can come across as somewhat repetitive, and his disdain for certain trends in children's publishing may alienate readers who find value in more traditional, didactic narratives. Additionally, while his passion is evident, some may find his tone occasionally veering into the realm of the self-righteous, which could detract from the overall impact of his message.

In conclusion, "Make Believe: On Telling Stories to Children" is a thought-provoking and impassioned work that challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of children's literature. Barnett's call to honor the intelligence and imagination of young readers is both timely and necessary, making this book an essential read for authors, educators, parents, and anyone invested in the future of storytelling.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 5/14/2026