When reviewing an overall collection of children's literature, consider if all groups have been represented according to the criteria listed below. If a group is omitted from a library collection, then the students are not exposed to the literature of that group. The identity and self-worth of students whose backgrounds are within the omitted group is greatly harmed as well.
In children's literature with any kind of illustration, a few questions should be asked while reviewing the material. The first step is to investigate stereotypes. Remember, people can be stereotyped for age, race, religion, gender, language, appearance, sexual orientation, ability or disability or intellect, to name a few. So check to see if there any stereotypes.
Along with stereotypes, there can be an inclusion of a 'token' character. This is a character that is included in the literature to depict an appearance of diversity. However, when a token character is included they lack genuine features of their culture and often demonstrate stereotyped behaviors. The inclusion of a token character
In a children's book, the plot contains a great deal of detail. The characters should be confident and successful, but success should not be limited to a mainstream idea, such as being married, owning a home and raising children. Each character should be able to demonstrate the virtues of a successful lifestyle in a way that is appropriate to their culture.
Likewise, when problems are presented, characters should demonstrate aptitude and skill. There is no reason one a character cannot be a successful problem solver or forced to rely on a more competent person.
The characters should also be uplifted in their roles. Their stature should not be mocked or ridiculed because it does not fit with societal norms. For instance, parents who adopt in a story should not be put down because they did not choose to have children "of their own".
The inclusion of diverse cultures in a children's book is only suitable if the characters are authentic, genuine representations of a culture. Each character should be shown enjoying activities, food, song and dialogue that is appropriate for their background.
The main characters of a book, and particularly throughout a library collection, should not all be of one category. Women, men, people of all ages, races, sexual orientations, religions or other backgrounds should be shown as lead characters. Children should see that nothing acts as a limitation for a dedicated person.
In books where there are heroic characters, the symbolism is quite important. How was the hero shown and how was the antagonist represented. The good and evil paradigm is often shown with black and white characters in stories. Of course, heroes should not be held to one societal standard or appearance.
Does the collection of books include readings that will lift a child's self-image? While it is not possible to ensure that every book elevates every child's feelings of self-worth, it is possible to reduce the denigration of certain groups and increase the value of every group through a set of books.