Homosexuality in children's literature
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Homosexuality in children's literature covers children's books that include mention of homosexuality. With an increase in mainstream acceptability of homosexuality, the publication of such books has increased, though it faces opposition.
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[edit] Publication
Compared to the "explosion" of gay and lesbian teen fiction, sales of gay-themed books for younger children in public and school libraries remain "very dicey and very different."[1]
[edit] Controversy
Jenny lives with Eric and Martin, originally published in 1981 in Danish as Mette bor hos Morten og Erik, was one of the earliest children's books to address homosexuality. It tells the story of Jenny and her fathers and their daily life. Controversy and politicization followed its publication.
Some of the best known children's books with gay themes include Heather Has Two Mommies (1989) and Daddy's Roommate (1991), published by Alyson Books. Both books discussed same-sex parenting and attracted criticism and controversy for their portrayal of homosexuality as normal, and for targeting their books towards children.
Recent controversies include King & King, originally written in Dutch and published in English in 2002. The book is about a prince uninterested in princesses, who eventually falls in love with another prince. In 2006, parents sued a Massachusetts school district after a teacher read the book to a second grade class that included their son.[2][3]
After the conclusion of the Harry Potter series, author J.K. Rowling announced that she had always thought of Albus Dumbledore, headmaster in the series, as gay.[4]
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
[edit] References
- ^ Getlin, Josh. "Gay references touchy in children's literature", Seattle Times, January 5, 2004.
- ^ Meade, Michael J.. "Parents File Federal Suit Over Gay Book", 365Gay.com, April 27, 2006. Retrieved on 2007-03-04.
- ^ Williams, Margo. "New Dispute Over Gay Books Erupts At Mass. School", 365Gay.com, April 20, 2006. Retrieved on 2007-03-04.
- ^ JK Rowling says wizard Dumbledore is gay Newsweek Oct 16, 2007
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