Document Type

Paper

Publication Date

5-11-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Kara McShane

Department Chair

Kara McShane

Abstract

This paper aims to explore and examine the function of diverse and realistic representation in children's literature and its effect on their identity development. It asserts that literature is one of the main tools by which children develop their understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Reading about various kinds of diversity and realistic representation of different kinds of identities, whether based on race, gender, and disability, helps them to see diversity and commonality in human experiences. However, this paper will also examine how children's literature has been problematic in representing stereotypes and misrepresenting marginalized groups. It emphasizes the need for realistic and multidimensional representation of different kinds of identities and how these misrepresentations can be overcome by realistic and accurate representation. It also emphasizes the need for teachers to intervene and help students engage with these texts. This paper insists that diverse and realistic representation of different kinds of identities in children's literature has a great potential to challenge stereotypes and significantly shape children's developing identities.

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