Date of Award

Spring 5-2019

Degree Type

Honors College Thesis

Department

Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education

First Advisor

Hani Morgan

Advisor Department

Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education

Abstract

This research consists of a content analysis of Caldecott-winning children’s books. It explores the portrayal of the female gender before and after the Women’s Rights Movement. A qualitative approach was used to investigate the portrayal of four randomly selected Caldecott-winning children’s books. The research findings indicate that children’s books published prior to the Women’s Rights Movement include more gender-based stereotypes than those published after this movement. Female characterization, illustrations, and literary themes are all important factors contributing to the overall portrayal of the female gender in these books. The research findings are significant for educators, parents, and librarians, who should all be aware of the effects that poor representation of females can have on the development of children.

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