First book since 2004 to look at childhood from a postcolonial perspective and reflect on postcolonial theory in relation to children and childhoods, building on work by Cannella and Viruru (2004).

From one of the pioneers of childhood studies, Liebel uses a broad array of international case studies to examine the repercussions of colonial conquest on children’s lives and childhood policies today. Looking at how children in the Global South are affected by unequal power relations, paternalistic policies and violence by state and non-state actors, he shows how we can work to decolonize childhoods and ensure that children’s rights are better promoted and protected.

‘Genuinely ground-breaking. This is a seminal book which works as a textbook, a teaching resource and a highly significant contribution to knowledge. It is characterized by authority and enthusiasm.’ - Heather Montgomery, The Open University