Refugee Representation in Picturebooks: Analyzing Representation of Refugee Children in Five Contemporary Picturebooks

Abstract

Abstract This thesis investigates the representation of refugee children in five picturebooks published between 2015 and 2020, with a focus on analyzing the authenticity of these representations. Employing critical literacy, RefugeeCrit, and some picturebook theories as theoretical and analytical frameworks, the study examines how these books depict the lives and experiences of refugee children in various contexts: their home countries, during migration, and upon arrival in host countries. Additionally, it explores how external factors such as implied readers, authors' and illustrators' intentions, and the relationship between words and pictures shaped the portrayal of refugee children in the selected books. The analysis reveals a predominant depiction of refugee children as if victims deserve of a non-refugee generosity and hospitality, yet some books also portray their resilience and agen cy. Analysis shows varied portrayals, with some offering nuanced perspectives while others oversimplify realities. The portrayal of the refugee’s journey varies, and upon arrival, experiences range from positive receptions to mixed or challenging environments. This study confirms previous findings that many picturebooks featuring refugee lives and experiences tend to victimize refugee children, avoid discussing the root causes of conflict, idealize host countries, and reinforce binary thinking about safe and unsafe countries. Despite the incomplete representations, some of those books offer more authentic portrayal of refugee children as they did not reduce them to their refugee status. While recognizing that no single book can fully capture all aspects of refugee lives and experiences, these books may be served as a starting point for discussion about war, displacement, and the experience of refugee children. Despite its limitations, this research highlights the importance of authentic representation and applying critical literacy when engaging with these books to avoid perpetuating stereotypes against refugee children. Keywords: Refugee children, Picturebook, authenticity, critical literacy and RefugeeCrit