Multikulturele kinderlektuur in die Suid-Afrikaanse samelewing

M.A. (Information Science)The potential formative value of children's literature has repeatedly been proven by research. A child's perception of society is shaped early and the beneficial contribution of literature in bringing about a framework of awareness and understanding about society, cannot be denied. South African society is pre-eminently multicultural - a fact which is reflected in the rich diversity of ethnic groups, cultures, languages and creeds. A given political policy compelled the different ethnic groups in South Africa to live in separate areas, under divergent circumstances. This resulted in a deeply divided South African society in which alienation, distrust and conflict still prevail. However, fundamental changes are occurring in political, socio-economic and educational spheres. Amidst all of these changes, the South African child has to establish and enhance a cultural identity of its own. Secondly, a broadened South African identity must be attained. There is doubt whether the children of South Africa are equipped to cope with this new phase into which South African society is entering. The value of multicultural children's literature and.its potential to bring about understanding and acceptance with regard to the rich cultural diversity in South African society, offers a field of research which up to now has not been explored in South Africa..