Creating a love for reading is essential for children, and while there are numerous books available, a significant shortfall exists in the representation of children of color. Although strides have been made in diversifying children’s literature over the past few years, the progress remains insufficient.
An infographic recently highlighted the stark underrepresentation of kids of color in children’s books, and the findings are concerning. Compiled by researchers like Max Taylor and Laura Smith, and in collaboration with experts in the field, this infographic reflects data from the Cooperative Children’s Book Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 2018, they cataloged 3,134 books, revealing that only one percent featured main characters who are American Indian/First Nations. This is particularly alarming given the systemic injustices faced by these communities. Latinx and Asian American children fare slightly better, but only books featuring Black children broke into double digits, and even that was marginally.
Reflecting on my own experience as a child in the late ’90s and early 2000s, the lack of diversity in children’s literature was palpable. The few relatable characters I had, like Lila Johnson from a popular series or Maya in the American Girl collection, were often surrounded by narratives focused on historical struggles rather than everyday life. Most of the books I enjoyed showcased white characters, which left little room for representation.
Interestingly, while white children are depicted in half of all children’s books, this figure has decreased from 73.3% since 2015. Meanwhile, stories featuring animals and inanimate objects have surged from 12.5% to 27%. Given this data, one would expect a greater number of books featuring children of color, emphasizing the necessity for kids to see themselves in stories as well as understand diverse perspectives. Books can serve as gateways to empathy; if a child reads about a Latinx character, it may foster understanding and compassion, even if they are from different backgrounds.
The bestselling children’s books often highlight this gap in diversity. For example, many middle-grade series, aimed at upper elementary and middle school children, continue to feature white protagonists and are predominantly authored by white writers. Series like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney exemplify this trend.
In terms of picture books, while animal characters are prevalent, human protagonists are still predominantly white. Popular titles like “The Day the Crayons Quit” focus on inanimate objects rather than diverse characters. However, in the young adult category, representation is improving; many books by authors of color, such as Mia Rodriguez’s “The Heartbeat of the Night,” feature diverse characters and resonate with a broader audience.
While there have been positive changes, they are not happening quickly enough. Authors of color are voicing these concerns, yet it seems that decision-makers remain unresponsive. The evidence is undeniable—it’s not solely Black children propelling “The Hate U Give” to bestseller status; white readers are also drawn to diverse stories.
To support diversity in children’s literature, consider purchasing books that feature characters of color. Every purchase can make a difference in growing this vital representation. For more insights on enhancing diversity in literature, you can explore our related posts, such as those found on this page. If you’re interested in understanding the nuances of home insemination, check out this excellent resource. For a comprehensive at-home solution, visit this authority site.
In summary, while some advancements in diversity within children’s books have emerged, the journey toward equitable representation is far from complete. By supporting literature that reflects all children, we can help cultivate a more inclusive reading environment.