Becoming symbolic

This is a study of how book form affects content. It examines how important the physicality of the book is in relation to the narrative. Many different forms are utilised in the production of children's books so after a general overview of the subject I have foregrounded the impact of form on content by analysing some specific versions of *Snow White.* The versions of *Snow White* used are; Kubasta, Vojtech (c1971) *Snow White,* London: Murrays Childre's Books (first published by Bancroft and Co c1960) Lavater, Warja (1974) *Blanche-Neige,* Paris: Arte Adrien Maeght Pienkowski, Jan (1977) *Snow White* from *The Jan Pienkowski Fairy Tale Library,* London: William Heinemann Ltd. and Gallery Five Ltd. Poole, Josephine and Barratt, Angela (1991) *Snow White,* London: Hutchinson Children's Books Developments in book production inspire great books which enjoy critical and commercial acclaim. Ultimately I argue that the book form will continue to provide an imaginative, compelling and enlightening forum in which to deliver narrative, ensuring its longevity alongside the burgeoning tide of alternative digital formats.