Ufasiri Wa Ngano Za Kifantasia Miongoni Mwa Watoto Wa Shule Za Msingi

ABSTRACT

This research examined how standard three primary school pupils interpret fantasy tales as a genre in children’s literature. It’s main objective was to find out children’s interpretation of themes, characters and settings of the four chosen books namely: Kuku na Mwewe (Mpesha 1998), Paka na Panya (Nyakeri, 2006), Safari ya Mbinguni (Waihiga, 2006) na Afanyaye Ubaya Hulipwa (Yahya,2003). The research was guided by two theories whose tenets worked together in achieving the research objectives. The theories are Reader Response and Magical Realism. The research was carried out in the library, internet and in the field. The researcher read through the literary materials related to the topic for purposes of getting relevant information. The researcher then went to the selected schools in Homabay Municipality to collect data. The children answered questions after reading the selected tales. The research data obtained from the above mentioned source was then recorded and analysed based on the research objectives and theories. Data presentation has been done by use of written explanations and discussions. The research project has been presented in five chapters. The first chapter contains: research topic, objectives of the study, scope of the study and theoretical frame work. Chapter two has examined children’s interpretation of themes. The summary of the tales has also been done in this chapter. The third chapter contains children’s interpretation of characters and the fouth chapter deals with the interpretation of the settings. The last chapter has the summary, conclusions and recommendations for further research. The research will be beneficial to researchers and scholars in children’s literature. Other stakeholders who will also benefit include critics, parents, writers and publishers.