This paper examines the potential effects of the lack of diversity in children’s books on young readers, with an emphasis on the Latine/o/a/x community. Utilizing personal experience, market statistics, case studies, and educational research, this paper provides a holistic understanding of the sociological and psychological damage that can be caused when children do not see themselves positively represented in the media they consume. Whether through a complete lack of representation, negative stereotypes, or issues of authenticity, this paper explores why and how these issues directly impact a child’s self-esteem. In an effort to combat this issue and create substantive change, potential solutions are suggested and encouraged to readers from all walks of life.

本文研究了儿童读物缺乏多样性对年轻读者的潜在影响，重点是拉丁/o/a/x 社区。本文利用个人经验、市场统计数据、案例研究和教育研究，全面了解儿童在他们消费的媒体中没有看到自己积极代表时可能造成的社会学和心理损害。无论是通过完全缺乏代表性、负面刻板印象还是真实性问题，本文探讨了这些问题为什么以及如何直接影响孩子的自尊。为了解决这个问题并创造实质性变化，我们向各行各业的读者提出并鼓励潜在的解决方案。