Understanding Diversity through Novels and Picture Books » (Reprint)

LIZ KNOWLES, Ed.D. received her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Central Connecticut State University, a master's degree in Reading from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and an Ed.D. in Curriculum Development and Systemic Change, also from Nova Southeastern University. Liz has been an elementary teacher, grades K-6, for 30 years. She has also been an adjunct professor, teaching graduate courses in reading, at Florida Atlantic University. She currently serves as Director of Professional Development and Curriculum for both campuses (Ft. Lauderdale and Boca Raton) of Pine Crest School in Florida.

MARTHA SMITH received her undergraduate degree in Library Science from Eastern Michigan University and a master's degree of education in Library Science from the University of South Florida. Martha has been a media specialist for over 20 years in the Pre-K through 8th grade setting and is currently serving as Library Media Specialist at Pine Crest School, Boca Raton, Florida.

Knowles and Smith examine current research on diversity and multiculturalism. They move away from the traditional aspects of multicultural education (food, fashion, folktales, festivals, and famous people) to a focus on novels and pictures books, and realistic fiction to show children with diversity issues that there are others in similar positions. The issue of authenticity (whether the author of the book should be of that culture or merely familiar with the culture) is discussed. Topics include: Ethnicities (Asian, Latino/Hispanic, African/Black, Native American, White/European, Bi/Multiracial), Exceptionalities, Ageism, Socioeconomic Status, Sexual Orientation, Gender, and Religion. The authors provide this valuable resource for libraries, schools, and communities that wish to utilize literature to help diverse students "walk in the shoes" of others and to match books to children and young adults to heighten understanding and acceptance. Grades 4-8.

"The authors have compiled a timely and relevant resource focused on diversity as portrayed in novels and picture books, specifically geared for grades four through eight....The resulting reference work is a springboard for librarians, teachers, social workers, parents, and others seeking a comprehensive bibliography of realistic fiction that depicts children with diversity issues and shows a range of response to these challenges. It will help match diverse children with appropriate literature, and others to the walk a mile in my shoes experience."

Chapter 1 Introduction 1

Chapter 2 Research 3

Chapter 3 Authenticity 7

Chapter 4 African/Black 9

Chapter 5 Asians 21

Chapter 6 Biracial/Multiracial 33

Chapter 7 Latino (Latin America)/Hispanic (Spanish) 39

Chapter 8 Middle East 49

Chapter 9 Native American/First Nation/North American Indigenous 63

Chapter 10 White/European 73

Chapter 11 Ageism 81

Chapter 12 Exceptionalities 89

Chapter 13 Gender 97

Chapter 14 Sexual Orientation 103

Chapter 15 Socioeconomic Status 109

Chapter 16 Religion 115

Works Cited 121

References 123

Magazines 129

Author Index 133

Title Index 141