The volume provides a comprehensive introduction to the engagement with children's literature in the educational context. As an introductory work, it is aimed at students and educators who work with children aged five to ten years. To grasp the significance of children's literature for literary socialization, important terminology is clarified. A look at both historical and current trends allows for an overview of the development of children's literature. The didactic potential of different genres is also highlighted, enabling a targeted selection of texts for teaching. The volume is rounded off with teaching suggestions for grades 1 to 4, which are oriented towards the individual needs of the students while offering methodologically diverse approaches to literature.