Abstract

While studies on children's literature often focus on themes like adventure, imagination, friendship, innocence, or morality, there's a significant gap in exploring the complex interplay of crime and redemption. This essay addresses this gap by analysing Ida Fynn-Thompson's Betrayed by the City through Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory (SLT). SLT posits that individuals, particularly children, acquire behaviours, including criminal ones, by observing and imitating others. This analysis examines how Fynn-Thompson's narrative portrays acts of transgression and the potential for moral transformation, exploring the characters' criminal motivations (both social and personal), their journey toward redemption, and the challenges they face. The study finds that Betrayed by the City powerfully illustrates the transformative impact of the environment on a child's development. It also demonstrates how children's literature can serve as a powerful disincentive for young readers who might be unduly influenced by their surroundings, encouraging thoughtful choices. Furthermore, the essay highlights the critical role of adults in providing positive role models to guide youths toward prosocial behaviour and a more promising future.