The Need for Diverse Picture Books in Japan

Picture books are often used in Japanese classrooms to teach valuable lessons about how to behave in society. Until recently, Japanese education has placed much emphasis on conformity and group dynamics. Japanese demographics are rapidly changing, however, due to an increase in the immigrant population and cross-cultural marriage. Also, people are becoming aware of the importance of including those who have hitherto hovered on the margins of society. In order for children to prepare for and develop an awareness of diversity, they should be exposed to picture books featuring diverse characters in everyday situations. This paper will discuss the importance of diverse picture books, the current state of diversity in picture book publishing in Japan and suggest ways to increase the publication of books about multicultural and minority populations in Japan