Multicultural Literature and Young Adolescents: A Kaleidoscope of Opportunity

Abstract

Adolescents seek to understand who they are and where they belong in the world. Quality young adult literature can familiarize them with a broader view of the world, open doors in their minds, and reveal similarities and differences among a multitude of others who have struggled with similar issues. Literature that provides a range of perspectives can broaden young adolescents' vision of self and the world, providing an avenue for reflection and a means for personal development. Quality multicultural literature can also help to interrupt prejudice and misunderstanding by exposing unacknowledged bias and intolerance. Availability of quality young adult literature written by people with a range of perspectives provides all students with affirming images of self and culture.When selecting multicultural literature, accuracy and authenticity about the cultures portrayed are crucial. Identifying appropriate multicultural literature can be problematic for teachers whose days are already encumbered with multiple tasks. To assist in the process, a guide for evaluating multicultural literature is provided, along with suggestions for substantiating an author's credentials for writing about a specific culture. Examples of quality multicultural literature appropriate for middle‐level students are also included.