The big picture: Representation of LGBTQ characters and themes in picture books available in the United States 1972-2018

Abstract

The number of LGBTQ picture books—literary works for children containing lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer characters and themes—has increased considerably since 2000. While different segments of this category of books have been examined, there has been a limited examination of the entire genre. Using 234 English-language LGBTQ picture books available in the United States between 1972 and 2018, I conducted a content analysis of the main themes and central characters as well as investigate how the main themes changed over time and the extent to which they reflected the larger historical contexts in which they were created. I find that very few LGBTQ characters are cast as main protagonists and some (i.e., bisexuals) are completely absent. Similarly, I find an increase in diversity of themes over the decades yet with most centering on marriage, parenting, and domesticity. Together, LGBTQ picture books convey a limited view of the LGBTQ lives.