This article brings the challenges of locating Cecília Meireles' book Ou isto ou aquilo (Either this or that) in its materialness, with considerations on its 1964, 1969, 1977, 1987, 1990 and 2002 editions, as well as comparing these editions in order to understand the forms in which texts are presented to their readers at different times, and questioning how and why these forms are conceived and put into practice. In the light of studies on cultural history, in the analysis of the different editions, this exploratory research prioritizes the external parts that involve poems (the texts themselves) and their illustrations. It provides identification and a discussion on the production of senses and values related to readers' education, the recognition of a writer who is consecrated by literary tradition, the uniqueness of the language used, and the importance of pleasant reading practice.
children's literature; reading; history of the editions; reader