Kenneth Kidd

Professor Kenneth Kidd is a Professor at the University of Florida (UF), serving as an Affiliate Professor with the Center for Women’s Studies and Gender Research and Director of UF’s Center for the Study of Children’s Literature & Culture. He holds the title of UF Research Foundation Professor (2024-2027). His work focuses on Anglophone children’s literature, exploring intersections with philosophy, psychology, critical theory, gender studies, and queer theory. He has authored influential books such as Freud in Oz and Theory for Beginners, and co-edited volumes like Wild Things (on ecocriticism) and Prizing Children’s Literature (on awards and cultural politics).

• Research Interests: Queer childhood, gender in children’s literature, literary theory, and Florida-focused children’s narratives.
• Editorial Roles: Co-editor of the Cambridge History of Children’s Literature and the Routledge Children’s Literature and Culture series.

Prof. Kidd teaches courses such as “Florida Children’s Literature” and “Disney and Its Discontents,” blending theoretical analysis with cultural critique. His current project examines Florida’s unique contributions to children’s literature.

• Awards: UF Research Foundation Professorship (2024-2027).

He actively contributes to professional associations like the Children’s Literature Association and oversees interdisciplinary research initiatives through his directorship of the Center for the Study of Children’s Literature & Culture.