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Year of Graduation
2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
MFA: Children’s Book Writing and Illustrating
Directing Professor
Hillary Homzie
Abstract
People can be connected or divided by food because food is not just nutrition to consume but also part of one’s identity that is created by culture. This thesis demonstrates the example of toxic depictions of food/food culture in Children’s literature along with my real-life toxic food experiences as a foreigner who lives in the U.S. to demonstrate how food stories can bring a negative impact. On the other hand, it analyzes how stories centering on food can also make positive impacts through my two creative thesis works, a picture book, Hands That Wrap, and a chapter book, Tomo’s Cooking Surprise, along with several other mentor children’s books. The food stories bring hope that can transcend boundaries between people using the concept of “Connect, Love, Share and Accept”, which can play an important role in Children’s literature.
Recommended Citation
Ashton, Akiko Sekihata, "Cure or Poison? What Food Stories Can Do in Children's Literature" (2023). Children's Book Writing and Illustrating (MFA) Theses, Hollins University. 13.
https://digitalcommons.hollins.edu/childrensmfa/13
Purpose Statement
The purpose of preserving this thesis document is to provide a definitive record of student progress upon completion of the degree. This text will not reflect any revisions to the manuscript made after degree completion. For the most current version of the work, please contact its author.