Final answer:
Children's books should encompass a broad spectrum of experiences and emotions, reflecting historical evolution from didactic tales to today's complex narratives. They connect with readers through various themes beyond contemporary settings and fairy tale endings, thus broadening their relevance and impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The content of children's books should reflect the full range of childhood experience, from the difficult to the exciting. This approach to children's literature mirrors the evolution of the genre and respects the intelligence and emotional breadth of young readers. Historically, children's literature has ranged from the educational and moralistic tales of the Victorian age to the more diverse and complex stories of today. From the adventurous realms of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings to the magical world of J.K Rowling's Harry Potter, stories have evolved to reflect various aspects of life.
Moreover, historical content serves to connect readers with the past, providing a sense of authenticity and national identity. Oscar Wilde, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Rudyard Kipling are celebrated authors whose works continue to resonate due to their varied and thematic riches. Therefore, not being limited to contemporary settings or ensuring a 'happily ever after' ending allows children's books to present a more realistic and relatable narrative.