Sheptiani Rusmaningtias, Supartinah, Candra Cuga, Rahmat Olii
Research indicates that traditional gender roles persist in literature for children. This systematic literature review (SLR) provides insights and implications for filling the apparent gap between gender representation and the developments made in children’s literature toward gender inclusiveness. The findings show that male characters are cast as heroes or leaders, while female characters remain in passive or supportive roles, narrowing young readers’ vision of being male or female. Although there may be a progressive trend in Western female-centric narratives, conservative areas are maintaining the status quo and limiting the availability of alternative gender representations. It also finds tokenism, with non-binary and female characters frequently positioned as symbols rather than three-dimensional agents, subtly reinforcing existing power structures. Even the illustrative components of these books reinforce stereotypes, with boys being displayed as energetic and girls as passive or homemakers. The review highlights the urgent need for collaboration in research and policy frameworks that advocate gender-equitable literature that provides children and young people with diverse identities and roles. Through representation, children’s literature can help develop critical thinking and resilience, equipping future generations with the tools to question and challenge conventional gender systems. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025.
Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia
