The Peterkin Papers stands as a pioneering work in the realm of nonsense prose crafted for young adult readers. Published in 1880, it diverges from the prevailing trend of its time, where family-centered narratives were predominantly didactic. Such stories, exemplified by Mary Sherwood’s The History of the Fairchild Family (1812), were steeped in moral lessons, emphasizing strict obedience to one's parents, particularly the father, and often underscored the themes of sin and repentance. In these tales, parents were depicted as paragons of wisdom, unwavering in their sense of right and wrong, as seen in Martha Finley’s Elsie Dinsmore series that began in 1867. Within these narratives, any semblance of foolishness was neither tolerated nor exhibited by the adult figures.

However, Lucretia Hale’s portrayal of the Peterkin family deviated remarkably from this norm. Her humorous approach not only made the stories memorable but also offered a refreshing perspective on familial relationships. Despite the impact of Hale’s innovative storytelling, most authors persisted in their instructive styles. Notable exceptions include E. Nesbit, who introduced the Bastable family in The Story of the Treasure Seekers (1899). Through the eyes of Oswald, the oldest son, Nesbit crafts tales that celebrate the autonomy of children, highlighting their capacity to devise and execute grand schemes, much like Hale’s characterization of the Peterkins. Nesbit's narratives are imbued with the same comedic flair that marks Hale’s work.

In this period, other significant works also explored humor in storytelling for young audiences. Noteworthy among these are Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1865), which delves into whimsical and surreal adventures, Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories (1902), known for its playful narratives explaining natural phenomena, and Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows (1908), which blends humor with charming tales of friendship and adventure. These works collectively underscore a shift toward a more lighthearted and imaginative approach to literature for young readers, a path paved in part by the trailblazing efforts of authors like Hale.