Children’s literature is not just about stories. It's a critical medium for teaching essential life lessons to our young ones. One of the most significant themes found in children's books is the concept of sharing. Sharing is a fundamental social skill that every child should learn. Not surprisingly, it's prevalent in literature targeted towards children. But what psychological underpinnings drive the essence of sharing in children's literature?

The concept of reciprocity plays a significant role when sharing is depicted in children's literature. When one character shares something with another, they often receive kindness or a favor in return, reinforcing the beneficial psychological cycle of giving and receiving. Many children's books illustrate the idea, 'If you give a little, you can get a lot.' It's a compelling lesson about the rewards of generosity that children can grasp. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister and Should I Share My Ice Cream? by Mo Willems are prime examples of this.

The second psychological aspect is empathy. When children identify with a character in a story who shares and see the positive outcomes of this behavior, they're more likely to imitate it. Books such as A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams and Stone Soup by Marcia Brown beautifully illustrate how sharing can be empathetic, leading to communal contentment.

The concept of fairness is another key perspective children glean from literature. Kids inherently want things to be 'fair,' and sharing promotes this idea. In the story The Doorbell Rang by Pat Hutchins, the children must figure out how to divide cookies fairly, teaching young readers about sharing in a relatable situation.

In conclusion, teaching children about sharing via the vehicle of literature is a powerful tool. It harnesses imaginative identification and takes it a step further, instilling valuable core values and social skills through relatable and enjoyable narratives. It is not just about cultivating reading habits or language skills but also about promoting life lessons, understanding emotions, and building character.