Among the key things we have noted:
- After a long period of stagnancy, we began to see signs of positive change with regard to BIPOC representation in 2014/2015 . By 2020, the numbers of books we received about BIPOC characters and by BIPOC authors and illustrators had tripled, in part thanks to the efforts of We Need Diverse Books and others.
- The more diverse books there are, especially books created by those who have lived understanding and experience, the more opportunities librarians, teachers, parents, and other adults have of finding outstanding books for young readers and listeners that reflect dimensions of their lives, and give a broader understanding of who we are as a nation.
- We are seeing more books that reflect the multifaceted complexity of individual lives when it comes to identity; for example, books in which characters are not a single race or ethnicity, or even biracial, but multiracial/multiethnic; and more complex and nuanced portrayals that reveal intersectional identities, as well many other aspects of identity, interest and experience beyond race and ethnicity. It should be noted this has always been present in authentic literature, but the recent rise in numbers means we are seeing more books, and therefore greater diversity within and across specific groups.
- Small, independently owned publishers, such as Lee & Low, Just Us Books, and Groundwood contribute significantly to the body of authentic diverse literature for children in the United States and Canada. The commitment of individual editors at both large and small publishing houses also has made an impact. More recently, initiatives such as We Need Diverse Books have had an incredible impact as the voices of BIPOC authors, illustrators and critics of color lead the call for change. Social media has also been a major change agent, allowing the discussion to remain at the forefront of our collective attention in the fields of children’s and young adult literature, because of the Black, Indigenous and People of Color who continue to advocate for change.
- Identity-based children’s and young adult book awards that recognize excellence are also important. Visit our Awards and Best-of-the-Year Lists for links to identity-based awards and other resources.
- We can all make a difference by purchasing and sharing diverse books in our professional and personal lives. Publishing is a business, and sales matter. The books themselves matter to children and teens, who deserve to see the rich diversity of their lives and the world in which they live reflected in the books around them each and every day.
- While numbers are important, they are far from the only important thing to consider when it comes to diversity in publishing for children and teens. The books themselves matter. And every year we see amazing diverse books published.