“Becoming Raced:” A Critical Examination of Children’s Picture Books about Race

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 7:45 am - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Critically Exploring Children’s Literature, Cultural Identities, and Languages

Abstract

Conducted amidst increased demand for antiracism resources and the subsequent book bans targeting Critical Race Theory, this study examines implicit and explicit messaging in children's picture books about race. Employing a mixed-methods design using comparative quantitative measures and Critical Race Content Analysis, we explore how children’s picture books represent race and racism. Findings indicate that racism was most often depicted as historical and interpersonal, and rarely as a contemporary or systemic issue. While the books frequently acknowledged and celebrated multiculturalism, qualitative analysis revealed mixed messages that often elided white supremacy. This adds to our understanding about what the messages children’s books about race convey while raising critical questions about how picture books about race can inadvertently serve to undermine antiracist goals.

Authors

• Jen Bradley, Swarthmore College

• Barbara Thelamour, Swarthmore College

• Ryan Lei, Haverford College in Pennsylvania

• Carolin Obispo, Swarthmore College

• Nzana Thillot, Swarthmore College

• Kylie Williams, Swarthmore College