Abstract:
Imagine children attending school every day without the ability to see themselves represented, as if they do not exist. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many students in the United States. Their language, race, religion, family structure, disability, socioeconomic status, and culture are not visible within the walls of the classroom. What kind of message does this send America's youth? In a nation that grows more diverse each year, the literature educators select must accurately reflect all children. While educators incorporate books showing different cultures, races, and languages, many fail to address family structure. Families in the United States are changing. They are becoming more diverse each year. Unfortunately, children's literature is not keeping up with this shift. Teachers, parents, and community members must seek out books representing various family types to include in their libraries.
