Anthropological Perspectives on Children as Helpers, Workers, Artisans, and Laborers

David F. Lancy is Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at Utah State University, USA.

“Anthropological Perspectives on Children as Helpers, Workers, Artisans, and Laborers is a superbly written, well-researched, and ethnographically grounded text that is easy to follow and clear with its examples. It is ideal for entry-level undergraduates studying the anthropology of work, play, kinship, and socialization as well as for courses in labor and childhood studies.” (Jennifer E. Shaw,Anthropology of Work Review, Vol. 41 (2), 2020)“Lancy draws on a wide corpus of literature and presents a variety of valuable insights into children’s work, and their potential to learn from this work, across societies and geographical contexts. … This volume’s synthesis of anthropological insights into children’s work and its changing forms across cultures and livelihoods, emphasising children’s ingenuity, skills and ability to pursue their own learning, is commendable.” (Gemma Pearson, Children's Geographies, Vol. 17 (5), 2019)“Lancy’s comprehensive overview highlights the importance of anthropological research for understanding cultural variation in children’s socialization and work activities. … this volume is a welcome and invaluable contribution to anthropological scholarship on childhood.” (Wendy Klein, American Anthropologist, Vol. 120 (3), 2018)

• 1. Work in Children’s Lives.- 2. From Playing to Working.- 3. Helpers.- 4. Becoming Workers.- 5. Young Artisans.- 6. Children as a Reserve Labor Force.- 7. Children as Laborers.- 8. The Effects of Culture Change on Children’s Work.