Problem Statement

“Books in the Mixed Race In/Visibility category depicted stereotypical experiences and provided little or no opportunity for critique of racism. Mixed Race Blending books featured characters whose mixed-race identity was descriptive but not functional in their lives. Mixed Race Awareness books represented a range of possible life experiences for biracial characters who responded to social discomfort about their racial identity in complex and credible ways.” (Chaudri & Teale, 2013).

The problem is there is a lack of intersectional and diverse racial representation and experiences in children’s literature. The final project is purposed to create a contribution to the solution to this problem by writing, designing, and illustrating a children’s book that comprehensively represents an intersectional multiracial (bi-racial) experience.

Problem Statement

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Project Scope & Objectives

Write, design, and illustrate a children’s book that comprehensively represents an intersectional multiracial (bi-racial) experience while working towards personal and professional objectives. My Mom Makes French Toast with Chopsticks is about a young, half-Korean, half-White girl learning to understand and accept her multiracial background.

Self-Improvement Objectives:

Design • Learn and apply professional and proper book design skills. Learn how to design children’s picture books. Apply and research accessibility standards.

Research & Development Research the problem before writing, designing, and illustrating. Learn more about the importance of multi-racial representation and where there is need in children’s literature.

Writing • Research writing processes for children’s literature. Properly outline the story and ensure each line holds importance to the story. Follow up writing drafts with professionals that work with children (like teachers).

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Project Scope & Objectives

Professional Objectives

Audience and Market Research Professionally, I would like to improve my marketing skills, specifically conducting audience and market research. A product must be market driven otherwise it won’t succeed. Research the audience and ensure they will be receptive to the final drafts by having them read the book and provide feedback.

Project Management & Organization • Create a plan outlined with deadlines for myself via calendar. Use the class syllabus as a guideline. Plan meetings with collaborators per deadlines.

Communication & Being Receptive to Constructive Feedback • Document feedback, research ways to apply the feedback, and follow up with results. Present final result by showcasing a comprehensive look into the research and process.

Project Scope & Objectives

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Project Limitations & Risks

Time I’m concerned about finishing the illustration on time. I will be working with two other people to accomplish the illustration portion. This quarter is only nine weeks rather than ten. I think writing and illustrating a whole children’s book would have been difficult even in ten weeks.

Printing It is unlikely that I’ll be able to print the final book. I’ll distribute it via PDF and Issuu (online publishing site).

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Project Limitations & Risks