What is my vision for the future of children’s literature?

Before I read any prescribed readings, I reflected on my experience as an Early Childhood teacher and asked my eleven-year-old daughter for her opinion. Comparing my notes to those reflected in Short (2018) and the Australian Writers’ Centre Team articles was interesting.

My vision for the future includes picture books containing stories about diversity and representation that goes beyond stereotypes. This shift has happened, but cultural diversity is still somewhat underrepresented in this book format. A variety of simple to complex text and storylines in which picture books can be promoted for reading by a wider age group beyond the suggested early childhood and lower primary years.

In my daily practice, I have used picture books for more than just a quiet time activity. Combining text and imagery representing cultural diversity can provide children with many learning experiences they can relate to on a more personal level, developing understanding and empathy.

My daughter suggested that Graphic Novels are gaining popularity. This was confirmed by a somewhat subjective survey conducted amongst the peer group. Graphic novels not only provide a transition between picture books and young adult fiction novels but can engage the reader through bold and detailed graphics and fast-paced text.

According to the Australian Writer’s Team (2020), graphic novels are increasing in popularity across ages and genres. My daughter added, ‘Sometimes you want a quick-to-read entertaining book. A lot can be said through illustrations.’

Who will be the drivers of change?

The audience for which children’s literature is intended will be the primary drivers of change. This includes not only children but parents, carers and educators. These groups will influence the demand for particular types and modes of children’s literature. For example, young children may be affected by literature that ‘comes alive’ through multi-modal formats such as books adapted for a television series or vice versa and characters transformed into plush toys or action figures. Parents may seek literature ranging from traditional or classic stories from their youth to bedtime reading. Whilst educators may seek more contemporary literature with ‘teachable moments relating to ‘sustainability, diversity and indigenous cultures.

 

Australian Writers’ Centre Team. (2020, July 17). 7 trends in children’s and YA publishing. AWC: Australian Writers’ Centre. https://www.writerscentre.com.au/blog/7-trends-in-childrens-and-ya-publishing/

Short, K. (2018).What’s trending in children’s literature and why it matters. Language Arts, 95(5), 287-298.