The Representation and Portrayal of Female Characters in Children’s Picture Books: A Case Study of Award-Winning Works from the Hsin-Yi Picture Book Award

Abstract

With the growing emphasis on early childhood education and gender equality, the development prospects of the children’s picture book market have expanded significantly. However, the gender imagery conveyed through these children’s picture books warrants critical exploration. This study examines gender stereotypes and their impact on children’s gender identity development through the lens of gender construction and image narration. By employing a case study approach, we conducted a statistical analysis of award-winning works from the Hsin-Yi Picture Book Award, revealing a disproportionate male-to-female character ratio and the stereotypical portrayal of female roles (e.g., passive, domestic, or overly decorative). Therefore, in the practical part, the design of the picture book focuses on the life of children, shaping a breakthrough in the traditional role of women, so that children can obtain multiple gender cognition in the process of reading, and promote the education of gender equality.