Debate about the rainbow fish: toxic children's book or valuable lesson?

Debate about the rainbow fish: toxic children's book or valuable lesson?

The picture book “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister, published in 1992, is an internationally recognized work and is considered a classic of children's literature. However, there is currently a broad debate about the book's moral message. Critics call the book one of the "most toxic children's books," while supporters praise its lessons about sharing and eschewing selfishness. These different perspectives further fuel the discussion and lead to numerous polemical statements on social media.

Critical voices argue that the book conveys false values. In particular, the “rainbow fish” is accused of giving the impression that children have to conform in order to be accepted. The sharing of scales is interpreted as a metaphor for the loss of individuality. One comment, which received over 13,000 likes, describes the book's central message as the need to give up one's own uniqueness in order to be part of a community. The criticism also extends to the aspect of the book's friendships, which are based on jealousy rather than genuine understanding.

The experts' view

Child psychologist Rita Messmer comments on the current debates and explains that children perceive history differently than adults. She sees the rainbow fish as a positive figure who shares something beautiful without harming herself. However, Messmer warns against adults overly transferring their own, often complex worldviews onto children's perceptions and speaks of a problem of “over-psychologizing”. In her opinion, children should learn to become part of a larger whole and to fit into social systems.

Additionally, critics point out that the book presents a superficial view of friendship as it is based on the gift of scales. Messmer, on the other hand, believes that such interpretations are exaggerated and that the positive aspects of the story should not be ignored. She sees the stories of friendship and sharing as important teaching content that support children in their social and emotional development.

The role of children's books in development

Science shows that children's books are central components in children's educational and psychological development. They combine poetry and pedagogy to impart knowledge and promote profound developmental steps in the child's psyche. According to current research, children's books have positive effects on linguistic, cognitive and social development. Regular reading of children's books not only expands vocabulary, but also improves language production and strengthens the bond between parents and children.

Children's books like "The Rainbow Fish" also address social issues and promote empathy by allowing children to identify with characters. The design of children's books is equally important; they should provide engaging illustrations and age-appropriate language to support the learning process. It is emphasized that not all children's books have the same effect and that the content should be selected according to the children's interests.

The debate over “The Rainbow Fish” highlights the complexity of children's literature and its impact on child development. The debate between critics and advocates shows the importance of reader understanding, while the science of the child provides a clear framework for the meaning and impact of children's books.