It’s Time To Change Children’s Literature

Growing up, my nose was always buried in a book. Reading was my escape, my bridge to other worlds. Unlike today’s generation of iPad kids and endless scrolling on social media, books were my go-to distraction. They offered a sense of adventure and wonder that, in my opinion, no screen could match.

Books weren’t just a pastime—they became a tool for sparking my creativity, expanding my worldview, and building empathy as I stepped into the shoes of characters from all walks of life. Yet, there was something troubling I didn’t notice until much later: the characters I encountered rarely, if ever, looked like me. Most of them were animals or characters with fair skin and blue eyes, a look far from my own. It wasn’t until I took a children’s literature class that I truly understood the importance of representation in books. This realization shed light on a broader question: In a world as diverse as ours, why do so many books still lack diversity?

Representation in literature isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about giving young readers the chance to see themselves within stories, to feel included and validated, and to grow up knowing their experiences, backgrounds, and identities are valued. Studies show that reading from a young age significantly shapes personal development, from emotional intelligence and social skills to self-confidence and creativity. Stories should connect children to their cultural heritage while fostering an appreciation for others’. The issue of representation goes beyond cultural diversity; it includes gender roles, body positivity, and various family structures. If reading is pivotal to shaping the future generation, then shouldn’t every child have the opportunity to see themselves in a book? Shouldn’t they have role models who look like them, who share their struggles, who celebrate the same holidays, and who live in homes that feel familiar?

Thankfully, the tide is shifting. More diverse children’s books are hitting the shelves than ever before, slowly chipping away at a history of limited representation. However, the progress is gradual, and many children are still left without characters that feel like home. Children’s literature needs a greater push to represent not just more cultures, but also diverse topics like gender equality, neurodiversity, and acceptance.

The question then becomes, how can we make this change more than a trend? It starts with all of us. If you’ve ever thought about writing a children’s book, now may be the time to pursue that dream. Imagine creating stories where young readers of all backgrounds find characters who look like them, think like them, and share their experiences. Being a children’s author gives you the power to redefine the landscape of children’s literature for generations to come.

But even if writing isn’t for you, there are still impactful ways to promote change. Share diverse books with young readers in your life. Support and amplify authors and illustrators who bring underrepresented characters to life. Spread awareness about the need for inclusivity in literature and encourage others to seek out stories that reflect our world in all its variety.

By advocating for diverse, inclusive stories, we’re helping create a future where every child can grow up with stories that affirm their place in the world.