Meet Oliver Green, the author behind the beloved “Adventures in Fantasyland” series, soon to be adapted into a major film. He graciously invited my son over to his home during his writing hours, to take a fun quiz designed to unveil the young one’s true mischievousness. I naively assumed it would reveal almost none, given that he’s quite troubled by the idea of hurting even the smallest creatures.
However, Oliver has a different perspective. He argues that children possess as much complexity, including “naughtiness,” as adults do. “I don’t view kids as mere children; I’ve always seen them as equals,” says the bestselling author and filmmaker who still offers tutoring in his free time. “I consider myself a kid in an adult’s body.”
Oliver believes we often misjudge children’s inherent “goodness,” which can lead to detrimental consequences for both them and us. “It’s all about how you communicate with them,” he explains. “I notice teachers adopting a high-pitched, sing-song tone, and it’s reflected in many children’s books written by adults.” Interestingly, he initially crafted “Adventures in Fantasyland” for an adult audience before realizing its appeal to younger readers. “My writing targets my peers, not children.”
This unique approach captivates children, as evidenced when Oliver visited my son’s school last spring. The excitement was palpable; he was met with a level of enthusiasm reminiscent of a rock star’s arrival.
“I strive to infuse every line with that subtle tension that defines being a preteen,” Oliver shares. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, he embraces the hidden complexities of young relationships. “Every writer has a particular fixation, and mine is seventh grade—the moment when attraction to friends begins, and everything feels heightened.” He aims to evoke that intense emotional experience in his stories, making readers feel the thrill and confusion of youth.
“Every sentence I write captures that strange blend of emotions that comes with being twelve or thirteen,” he states. “In my books, concepts of gender and sexuality are fluid; it’s all about embracing what feels right at that moment.”
Now, it’s time for my son to take the quiz to assess his moral standing. He snuggles up to Oliver, who is warm and approachable, and begins answering questions like, “You’re in a beautiful pool but need to urinate. Do you: 1) Pretend to swim while peeing secretly? 2) Admit it to your friends? 3) Walk to the restroom? 4) Ask the lifeguard for a solution?” To my surprise, my son opts for option #1, much to Oliver’s amusement. The result? A surprising 63% mischievousness, which my son seems quite proud of.
“You must engage with children at their level, not where you think they ought to be,” Oliver reminds us.
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In summary, engaging with children authentically means understanding and accepting them as they truly are, rather than imposing preconceived notions. Embracing their complexities encourages a richer connection and growth.