Philanthropic tales: A critical analysis of how philanthropic citizenship is represented in children’s picture-books – problems and possibilities

Abstract

In this article we critically question how philanthropic citizenship is represented within children’s literature. Critical content analysis of over 100 western children’s picture-books reveals that the majority of children’s contemporary literature frames philanthropy as an individual act of personal responsibility which takes place in the private sphere, focusing on singular acts of kindness and generosity, overlooking connections between the cause and wider societal socioeconomic, political, environmental and/or social justice issues. Furthermore, many stories reinforce concerning traditional and stereotypical ideas of gender, race and power. Nonetheless, we also identify several books which notably seek to move beyond this, connecting acts of philanthropy to wider ideological, economic and political factors, placing a strong emphasis on social justice. In conclusion, we call for further research to explore how philanthropic stories are used within the home and classroom, and what children interpret as the ‘good philanthropic citizen’ through these stories.