#BlackLivesMatter: creating a diverse library of Touch to See books

People from BAME backgrounds under-represented in children’s literature

People from BAME backgrounds are widely under-represented in the world of children’s literature. It’s believed that “over the past 11 years, fewer than 2% of all authors and/or illustrators of children’s books published in the UK were from British people of colour.” (Book Trust). Additionally, a study for the Centre of Literacy for Primary education found that “of 9,115 children’s books published in the UK in 2017 only 391 featured BAME characters”.

Supporting the #BlackLivesMatter movement

As an charity that values inclusion above all else, Living Paintings is proud to support the #BlackLivesMatter movement. To do this, we will continue to explore ways in which we can ensure blind children of colour are represented in the books they read, and continue to diversify our catalogue with children’s books written and illustrated by people from BAME backgrounds. Whilst we currently have titles in our Touch to See library by black authors and illustrators, or featuring children of colour, we know that we can, and should, do more.

New books promoting inclusion

We are continuing to research and seek funding to adapt picture books such as Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, and The Mega Magic Hair Swap by Rochelle Humes. Books that not only attempt to deal with issues of race and discrimination, but that also tell stories of inspiring, fun, daring, creative protagonists from BAME backgrounds.

Our aims

Our hope is that our library of Touch to See books for blind children becomes as diverse and inclusive as possible so that it represents every corner of our wonderfully rich, multicultural and multiracial society. We will continue to educate ourselves, listen to the voices of people of colour and speak out against racism.

Get in touch

As ever, we are open to suggestions, feedback or questions. So please get in touch about this or any other issue. Perhaps you have a suggestion of a book for us to adapt, which features characters from a diverse range of backgrounds? Or you think we should check out a particular author or illustrator? Please get in touch.