Editor's Introduction

In the last issue that we will edit, many of the characteristics we hoped would be the hallmark of our tenure are present. We wanted readable articles backed with innovative research, individual voices, and international representation. We asked for monographs on individual authors and illustrators, historical examinations of different periods, and literary analyses of genres, and we added the category of neglected authors or works. And we wished to support new writers or graduate students.

This general issue offers the international authors, Matthew Grenby (Britain) and Eve Tal (Israel); Grenby's historical examination of the impact of the French Revolution on British children's books; Elaine Ostry's study of the incorporation of moral conduct books into Victorian and Edwardian children's fantasy; and Cynthia R. Rostankowski's look at the use of medieval monastic life in Brian Jacques's Redwall novels. In addition, Bonnie Cullen examines the evolving changes in the Cinderella story, both in art and in narration. Stuart Little, now adapted into two films, is analyzed by Marah Gubar as a coming-of-age story, while Anne Lundin examines the importance of Nancy Drew in her own adolescence and moral growth. Finally, Tal gives us the "forgotten author," Howard Fast, and his book, Tony and the Wonderful Door. We thank all these authors and the many others who have contributed to The Lion and the Unicorn over the past ten years.

We would also like to acknowledge our guest editors, who presented themed issues for the journal, and our editorial board, many of whom have been with us for the ten years, and who also have acted as guest editors. We'd like to thank Children's Literature friends such as Chip Sullivan, Kim Reynolds and Peter Hunt, who have recommended our journal as a place to send articles.

Special, special thanks to Geraldine DeLuca and Roni Natov for having the foresight to establish this journal, and to the Johns Hopkins University Press for not only publishing The Lion and the Unicorn, but also for giving us Carol Hamblen and Lynn Logan to work with. We couldn't have asked for more accomodating publishers.

We'd also like to recognize Minnesota State University, Mankato for its lengthy support, and to wish the new editors, George Bodmer, Lissa Paul and Jan Susina, the very best. Your years as book editors were great indeed.