Opinions of M.A.Rasulzadeh about Firidun bey Kocharli's book "Gift to children"
Najiba Bagirzade

One of the most famous writers, folklorists indefatigable researchers of the
history of Azerbaijani literature Firidun bey Kocharli’s book "Gift to children" is one
of the most valuable examples of Azerbaijani children's literature. The views of the
great social and political figure, literary critic Mohammad Amin Rasulzadeh on this
work, which attracted the attention of many literary critics, are very interesting.
Mohammad Amin Bey, in his eponymous article on “Gifts to Children”, emphasizes
the importance of children's literature and appreciates that Firidun Bey has done very
important and necessary work for the nation. Mohammad Amin Bey called “Gifts to
Children” a “masterpiece” and noted that this work, which contains folk tales,
proverbs and riddles, is an invaluable asset for the younger generation.
Nevertheless, M.A.Rasulzade also commented on this work, which he highly
appreciated. Thus, the non-Turkish compositions in the work caused him to regret. It
is clear that Rasulzade, who knew that the future of the nation depended on the
education and enlightenment of the younger generation, also considered it important
to develop his national thinking. Knowing the important role of the national language
in this matter, Rasulzade noted this moment as a drawback of the book. This, of
course, is due to the fact that he had higher expectations than Firidun Bey. In his
article, he noted that it is important for both Firidun-bek and young people to
continue this important work.
Mohammad Amin Rasulzade never forgot Firidun bey Kocharli and
remembered with great respect the martyr of this person, who was killed by the
Bolsheviks in exile. The article of the same name by M.A.Rasulzadeh about the book
"Gifts to Children" is of great importance, as are the views of Muhammad Amin-bey
both on Firidun bey Kocharli and on Azerbaijani children's literature.

Keywords: M.A.Rasulzade, Firidun bey Kocharli, “Gift to Children”, children’s literature, nationality, folk literature