Picture Book Theme Analysis
It is important to explore how literature illuminates life by conducting an inquiry on a topic of diversity in childrens Picture Books. You will be developing your skills in evaluating literature by applying genre-specific evaluation criteria and reading with a critical stance. You will write a 3-4 page paper to analyze your theme and reflect upon how your theme is addressed in the literature. You must provide a Bibliography, which is not included in the page count.
1. Choose 4 Picture Books with a related theme
2. Read and Analyze the Books
3. Write a 3-4 page analysis of the theme. Answering the following questions:
What is the theme/issue you studied, and what is its importance in society?
What are some possible root causes for the issue you are examining?
How does this issue affect children today?
How can you use these books to approach critical social issues with children?
Potential Themes for exploration include:
Children with disabilities, Sexuality/ LGBT, Foster and Adoption, Social Justice/ Activism, Saving the Environment, Refugee Experiences, Gender (ie: portrayal of boys, strong female characters), Immigration, Poverty, Homelessness, Bullying, Overcoming challenges/risk-taking, Kindness, Handling Grief, Resiliency
Where to Find Free Children’s Literature online:
Apply for an eCard through OC Public Libraries: https://catalog.ocpl.org/client/en_US/default/search/registration/%24N?pc=SYMWS
Bookflix.com
www.OpenLibrary.org
www.Getepic.com
www.myon.com/index.html
www.Vooks.com
www.ReadingIQ.com
www.OverDrive.com
www.storylineonline.net
www.LearningAlly.com
www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com
www.stories.audible.com
www.barefootbooks.com
www.uniteforliteracy.com
https://www.teachingbooks.net/
(There are also read aloud picture book’s videos on YouTube)
