The Picture Book: In this course; we will explore the complexities and historical development of the picture book; a deceptively simple genre of children's literature; and ways in which this genre not only delights young readers but also shapes their perceptions of the worlds they inhabit; and positions them within both the narrative and the readers' social relations. We will learn about fundamentals of art design and the technology of producing picture books; investigate both visual and textual codes of representation; and examine ways in which art and text shape and question each other. We will look closely at representative ninteenth and twentieth century works; writers; and illustrators from Britian; the United States; Canada; Australia and Africa; and think about how this versatile and dynamic genre might respond to new electronic technology and media. Instruction will include interactive lectures; but this course will be conducted as a seminar and participants will make presentations and respond to those of their colleagues. Prerequisite: one full course equivalent in English at the 400 level or consent of the department.