Northwest Communication Association Conference Papers & Presentations
Document Type
Paper
Publication Date
1-30-2017
Disciplines
Early Childhood Education | Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication | Language and Literacy Education | Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies | Publishing | Speech and Rhetorical Studies
Abstract
In this study, a narrative analysis of a children’s picture book was conducted to uncover how young audiences are taught about diversity and inclusion through books. The setting, characters, narrator, and target audiences of the 2014 book I am Jazz were evaluated to decipher how readers are educated about transgenderism and diversity in greater context. Specific rhetorical qualities in the visual and written elements emphasize the importance of diversity, uniqueness, individuality, and acceptance. This particular book has created a range of support and protest since its publication, and it is an important example of the emotional and political power of a story. An awareness of the messages and images sent to young learners is a critical part of fostering inclusivity and creating global citizens.
Related Resource
Exploring Diversity, Citizenship, and Gender through Jazz: A Narrative Criticism of I Am Jazz
Recommended Citation
Jones, Mary Beth, "Exploring Diversity, Citizenship, and Gender through Jazz: A Narrative Criticism of I am Jazz" (2017). Northwest Communication Association Conference Papers & Presentations. Paper. Submission 2.
https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/nwca/2
Included in
Early Childhood Education Commons, Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication Commons, Language and Literacy Education Commons, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies Commons, Publishing Commons, Speech and Rhetorical Studies Commons
Comments
This paper was presented at the 41st Annual Northwest Communication Association Conference held at the Coeur d'Alene Resort in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.