Richard Scarry is the prolific children’s book author who we all know and love. Since 1949 he’s created more than 300 gorgeous books.
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What is less well known is that Scarry has been quietly updating his work to ensure that it’s acceptable for modern audiences. His “Best Word Book Ever” has changed a lot since 1963.
He’s got rid of traditional gender roles and explored different types of relationships — and when placed side-by-side, we can see just how far we’ve come along since the 1950s. Dad is cooking here!
The subtle changes were noticed by Alan Taylor, a senior photo editor at The Atlantic who loved Scarry’s books as a child and noticed the changes in his own kids’ books.
Children now learn that firefighters will save people no matter what their gender or appearance.
And of course men (and bears) are quite capable of making their own breakfasts.
The playground has become a bit more diverse.
“Indians” (and costume racism) have disappeared.
And occupation names are now gender neutral.
