Accuracy of Agricultural Images in Children's Literature: an Analysis of Selected Children's Books on Farm Animals from 1950 to 2005

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived accuracy and acceptability of common domesticated farm animal images in selected children's non-fiction books published from 1950 to 2005 for 2- to 7-year-olds. The books reviewed were overall rated as "somewhat accurate," generally meaning the information from these children's books provides children with both accurate and inaccurate information. Books with photos and with only one animal specie were more accurate than other children's farm animal books. Parents, teachers, and others responsible for selecting educational materials about agriculture for children ages 2 to 7 should seek books that use photographs rather than other types of illustrations and books on preferably one specie. Writers and publishers of children's books for 2- to 7-year-olds should design books that include photographs and provide information about one specie per book when possible.