Judy Akid ’27
The influence of diverse children’s books in shaping social and political identity: exploring the effects of representation, banning, and cultural perception
Judy Akid ’27, Political Science
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Gizem Zencirci, Political Science
Children’s books hold an irrevocable position in shaping the minds of the youth. They are encouraged, celebrated, and praised nationwide. Children’s books usually target specific topics or themes to provide a fun story with a lesson in the hidden background. However, how do these books affect the development of a child’s political and social identity? In this project, our concern started with Arab-American children’s books, and the goal is to examine them by seeking how different themes, representations, and patterns are portrayed in various texts. But as we continued, we also included Pakistani, Iranian, and other children’s books that highlight some of the themes that we were looking for. Further, interpreting the presentation of social and political problems in books and the consequences of book banning would assist in coming to our conclusion. By accomplishing this, the study would provide a comprehensive representation of the effect of diverse books on children, advocating for their presence and the benefits of diversity in children’s books to promote tolerance.
War and Resistance
These books highlight narratives of individuals overcoming the difficulties that arise from war, such as immigration, and depict various ways of remaining hopeful and strong in the face of conflict.
War and Resistance
Heritage and Cultural Pride
With the help of the following books, we are taken on a rich journey through culture and storylines filled with pride in heritage.
Heritage and Cultural Pride
Strength and Representation
In these stories, children are encouraged to embrace their identities, empowering them by illustrating narratives of individuals they might relate to or look up to.
Strength and Representation
Everyday Life and Joy
Childhood is filled with ordinary joys and simple adventures, captured in the various books that highlight small acts of kindness, sibling relationships, and family traditions that make us smile.
