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Reading to children is critical to both linguistic and emotional
development. Some books however exploit this for a variety of reasons including
propagating racist or sexist material. Embedding emotional stability and helping
your child establish core language skills is a very admirable goal, if not one
critical to latter development. Few would argue however that propagating hateful
attitudes is the very antithesis of that goal, yet many who hold racist or
sexist attitudes have tried to disguise them in order to indoctrinate the young
into their ideologies.
Crass or antiquated material which even during its time was likely inappropriate
for children may often be marketed as material which children can read and work
to encourage these attitudes in the young reader who may not be able to discern
between antiquated and modern concepts.
Look for Stereotypes
Every culture should be celebrated for its unique traits and accomplishments;
but not insulted or stereotyped. When looking through children’s books check to
see whether a specific culture, race, or sex is doing all the important things
while the rest look on. Also check to see whether a given gender is being
marginalized; sitting on the sidelines observing. These sorts of situations that
give preference to a specific race or gender are sending a message of inequality
and could be construed as promoting subjugation of another culture or gender.
Consider the Plot
Even if there are no overt stereotypes there can be a subtle overall message
suggesting that one culture is better or another deserving of disdain. In some
cases this can be innocent or certainly unintentional. For instance many mid
1900s American stories depict all citizens of East Europe as subjugated, naïve,
and supporting of tyranny. These stories are extremely offensive to those in
these countries who during a time of tribulation worked hard for the cause of
freedom. Even outside of the feelings of these peoples it’s important to not
encourage children to stereotype peoples based on the actions of long ago, or
individual leaders. Even as well intentioned as anti-tyrannical books for all
ages have been they can be used to indoctrinate the young into stereotyping
peoples, and sexes and closing rather than opening minds.
Consider the Lifestyles Depicted
When looking at children’s books check to see whether minorities are depicted as
living differently or negatively; especially if non-minority characters are
depicted as the ideal. This is a subtle form of stereotyping.
Look at the Heroes and Villains
Is a specific culture the protagonist? Are only certain races or sexes the
protagonist while other cultures or genders are the enemy? Even if these
cultures are portrayed objectively their role in the overall plot can be a
subtle message that is taken as fact by the impressionable.
Check out the Author
If you get an impression that a book may be dated or slanted do some
research! Is the author known for promoting a specific culture, race, or
gender? Maybe the illustrator took a perfectly objective book and inserted
stereotypes into the illustrations to assert their point of view.
Censorship and Banning of Childrens Books
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