RODRIGUES, Raquel de Lima.
Abstract:
The research presented here discusses the representativeness of black characters in
children's literature for the construction of black children's identities at school, with the
aim of showing the possible contributions of stories by the writer Kiusam de Oliveira to
the recognition of these children, in a way that values different ethical cultures. The
methodology adopted consisted of ethnographic research, with a qualitative approach,
based on an analysis of the reaction and perception of students from three schools
who took part in storytelling workshops on the works of the aforementioned author,
also promoting reflection on the importance of representing the characteristics of black
culture and the black body in literary works transmitted to children. The results showed
that the lack of black protagonists not only perpetuates harmful racial stereotypes, but
also deprives young readers of enriching literary experiences that reflect the plurality
of society. On the other hand, children who see themselves reflected in the books they
read are more likely to develop a love of reading and engage more deeply with the
material. Thus, the inclusion of black protagonists is not only a question of social
justice, but also of educational effectiveness. It was concluded that integrating stories
such as those by Kiusam de Oliveira and other authors that address the characteristics
of black people into the school curriculum promotes a representative educational
environment where all children can recognize, value and respect themselves.
