“A successful photograph is worth as much as a story”. Photography’s influence on Bruno Munari’s books

This chapter examines Bruno Munari’s contributions to children’s literature, emphasizing his historical significance in redefining the relationship between visual storytelling, education, and the evolving concept of childhood. Munari, an Italian artist, designer, and illustrator, drew upon avant-garde movements such as Futurism, Bauhaus, and the works of László Moholy-Nagy to develop innovative approaches in his books. His use of photography, particularly through techniques like photomontage and photocollage, transformed children’s books into multidimensional tools for exploration, creativity, and critical engagement. Munari’s works, including Cappuccetto Giallo and Da lontano era un’isola, illustrate his ability to merge artistic innovation with educational theory, fostering curiosity and autonomy in young readers. His integration of photography into children’s literature reflected a broader mid-century shift in the perception of childhood as an imaginative, active phase of life. By bridging historical, artistic, and pedagogical traditions, Munari redefined the aesthetic and educational potential of children’s books, marking a transformative moment in the history of children’s literature and childhood studies.