The author of twenty-two children's books, Dunmore is no stranger to writing for children. Children's literature is crafted with care and knowledge for the developmental milestones of the age range of its intended audience. Literacy is an essential part of a child's upbringing because it is part of the foundation for making informed choices in the world. Dunmore not only contributes to building children's literacy—she also helps adult readers better understand children.
In her novels and poetry collections for adults, Dunmore writes extensively about motherhood, childhood, and the changes that come with the passage of time. "The Malarkey" is a prime example. This is a poem about the irretrievable past. A parent looks in a car and remembers the squabbles and chaos of her young children, but "The malarkey's over in the back of the car" (Line 10). The children have grown up and left. Defined as meaningless talk, malarkey is what "would have led you to them" (Line 3). This reminds adult readers not to take time with children for granted. Being present and getting on their level (even if it's nonsensical) will allow for connection.
Despite the fact that the child does not respond to the speaker in "To My Nine Year Old Self," the poet crafts the address with the care of an adult who knows children. Nine-year-olds are in the later stage of middle childhood where increasing independence leads them to have stronger and more complex friendships, body awareness, maturing emotions, and cognitive advancement. The speaker addresses her nine-year-old self in a way that recognizes her maturity: "Don't look so surprised, / perplexed, and eager to be gone" (Lines 1-2). She doesn't speak in rhyme or in a childish manner, nor does she engage in malarkey. Rather, she gets right on the nine-year-old girl's level and matches her energy.
Though they are very different in subject matter and tone, "To My Nine Year-Old Self" and "The Malarkey" illuminate ways for adults to engage with, care for, and appreciate children.
