Never underestimate the value of fiction in the education of children. Often it is seen as less important in the learning journey of our youth but inspiring the creative mind parlays into a more innovative thinker, at university, at work, and in life.

The Jungian interpretation of fairy tales specifically is that they teach children how to respond to conflicts, aspirations, and relationships in a positive way. The acquisition of these skills will influence the child’s values and beliefs and impact their lifestyle and consequent wellbeing. The notion of fantasy; utopian, dystopian, even the completely nonsensical challenges normative assumptions and inspires lateral thought and open-mindedness, not to mention healthy absurdity and play.

Carl Jung developed his interpretation using the dialectical relationship between the consciousness and unconscious states, the situation where one can be guided by daydreams, fantasies, paintings, etc, to address one’s own psychology. Literature that reinforces this exploration strengthens the individual’s ability to tap into that relationship.

Literature for young people helps them to understand the mechanics and dynamics of humanity, the world around them, and their place in it, fundamentals for their development.

Even executives in large corporations are being organised into focus groups or ‘clubs’ to read and discuss fiction books because forward-thinking CEOs are recognising the potential for increased innovation, risk taking and collaborative capabilities. This activity has been identified as crucial to the development of leadership skills as broad reading habits promote improved communication skills and fortify emotional intelligence.

Establishing robust reading habits for leisure in children today will ensure that they are the more successful academic tomorrow.