Article Review: GBLTQ Literature in the Classroom

Missing! Picture Books Reflecting Gay and Lesbian Families. May 2007. National Association for the Education of Young Children. November 20, 2007. http://www.journal.naeyc.org/btj/200705/pdf/Missing-Rowell.pdf

"As long been recognized, literature has the power to touch the hearts and minds of readers of all ages (Chapman 1999)" (Rowell).

The main point this article brings about is the fact that, "The lack of inclusive, gay-friendly picture books means some children cannot see their own lives or the full diversity of family life reflected in books" (Rowell). This saddening fact cannot be more plainly stated. As the article continues on and explains that more and more families are identified as LBGTQ and those children of those families are not able to see their lives represented in literature, and as books are such a source of comfort for many kids, these kids do not receive this comfort and ability to relate. The article further discusses how few books are available in classes that are identified as LBGTQ and the ones that are, many times, the LBGTQ character may be in the story, but not the focus of the story. The article makes a strong case for including all-inclusive libraries in early childhood classrooms in order to enrich the children's lives as to what families and communities are---all encompassing. The article then goes on to list many different ways LBGTQ books can be included in different parts of early childhood curriculum, from math counting books to science to social studies. The article then gives a book list and mini-reviews of many different LBGTQ books a teacher could choose from, and includes all bibliographic information needed. The article concludes by stating that, "Children from all types of families can develop their understanding and appreciation of the commonalities in loving relationships in the homes" (Rowell).
I think this is an excellent article that gives insight to how enlightened early childhood classrooms can be with the inclusion of LBGTQ books into their curriculum in order to promote diversity and inclusion of all sorts of families in their students communities. This article also gives a good list of books for teachers to consult and look through to improve their libraries. Happy reading!