Date of Award
12-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
This literature review examines the role of rats in picture books and juvenile literature. Twenty-three books in total are reviewed. Seven of which are picture books. They range from the years 1908 to 2021. These books are reviewed under four categories: Positive Attributes, Negative Attributes, Illustrations, and the Cruelty and Exploitation of Rats. I have found that rats are depicted in a multitude of ways. Negative depictions of rats are brought up in almost every book including a rat character. This brings me to believe that rats are viewed negatively in children’s literature. Throughout this essay, I discuss each category in depth, using examples from the books I have read. Not all books I have read are included in this paper, but most are. I end this paper by concluding that rats are viewed in a mostly negative way.
Recommended Citation
Allen, Chloe, "Ewww, Rats: A Literature Review of Children’s Books Including Rats" (2024). Honors 499 Theses and Creative Projects. 26.
https://scholarworks.umf.maine.edu/honors_theses/26
Comments
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the University Honors Scholar Designation