Yes, There is a wealth of Diversity in Children's Books

     There has been plenty of claims made in recent days about the lack of Diversity in children's books.  Which has led to "labeling"  Dr. Suess books to be insensitive and racist.   This is nothing new.  The trend to view classic children's books in  a harsh light has been going on for years.  Take a look  critics of Little House on the Prairie Series or The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.  Both authors have been accused of using language that is derogatory towards Native and African Americans.   There is definitely a need to be inclusive in stories for children but not to the point of condoning censorship.  That is where we find ourselves in today's library.  As a children's librarian for many years,  this is an urgent call to remind not only my colleagues,  but anyone who works, lives and loves children.  Stop the madness.  Take a deep breath.  Look around for diversity in books and there are plenty to review.

    Taking a moment look at the big picture and reflect on the past, present and future of children's literature.    This genre has changed quite drastically since the mid 1960's.  Prior to that time, all children's books featured illustrations that were "traditional", nothing cartoonish or abstract.  Main characters were often European descent,  and lived in stories that ended with a  happily ever after.   Many of those books were good but very predictable predictable.  The changing styles  of storytelling and illustrations coming together starting in the 1960's was the turning point for children's literature.  Now there were not only diversity in main characters but also in the illustrations.  Dr. Suess'  characters were delightfully different and fun in a cartoonish way.  Maucie Sendak, Where the Wild Things are was definitely a step into wild colors, monsters and jungles. Not to mention the flood of books that made their way onto bookshelves that brighten the path for authors to explore and share cultures with their readers.  It is without a doubt  the trailblazers in Modern Children literature paved the way for the likes of Tomie dePaola,   Rachel Isadora, Ezra Jack Keats, and Patricia Polacco.  All of these writers have added significantly to the diversity of culture,  language, and characters that have taught children acceptance and understanding.  

    Studies have proven that children who become avid readers go about many changes, educational and psychologically.  Eductionally,  they are the children who have a robust vocabulary and are able to communicate effectively.   Emotionally, they tend be very empathic of others.  Reading re-wires the brain to see things with a new perspective.   This is ultimate goal for  little readers is that not only do they learn more but there is a hope that they become the men and women who care more.  

     Diverse books can and do help with the goal of inclusiveness.  However, it is important to keep in mind that children are looking at world with different views than ours.  They vision is not tainted with experiences that are harmful or hurtful.   It's the adults in their lives that subconciencely place fear and resentment of  past events onto the children.  For children,  it's enough to demonstrate diversity without pointing out a specific  race.   To them everyone is just like them.  That's not to say they see differences in skin, or hair or language.  They do.  The difference between the adults and children, is that children accept others without question.  

    Before we demand for diversity in all books at all times.  Would it be better to consider  that the demand is too short sighted? That is asking for too much and giving up opportunities to hear good stories?  The goal for diversity is to see the beauty in everything and everyone.  That goal can be achieved in ways  that speak to being kind to others.  From there, the steps move towards to encouraging  children to learn about other cultures, languages and foods, inviting them to discover a whole world beyond their front door.  A world that their imagination can take them.    The diverse children's  books are out there and there is always room from more to be written.   

    Well the time has come to go end the post for today.  It's time to read a book for little ones in the neighborhood.     Hope they like the book today.  The title?  Say Hello! by Rachel Isadora.   A favorite welcoming book for children everywhere and for dogs too!