Picture books, cherished in childhood, spark imagination and inspire young minds. Described by Bishop (1990) as both windows and mirrors, they provide children with glimpses into diverse worlds while reflecting their own experiences. This study investigates children’s books’ representation of autistic characters in terms of race/ethnicity, sex, and communication modality, and then further compares these characteristics to the current autistic population in the United States. A sample of 30 children’s picture books, collected from a local library, featuring autistic main characters were analyzed. Through binomial tests, findings revealed statistically representative portrayals of all Races/Ethnicities, however there was limited representation in some groups. Additionally, there was an abundances of female characters and an limited representations of males, compared to U.S. prevalence rates. Communication modalities depicted in the books, such as spontaneous speech and augmentative and/or alternative communication devices, are further described. This investigation emphasizes the importance of accurate and inclusive representation of diverse racial and ethnic groups in children's literature, as well as the need for gender representation beyond binary categorization. The research highlights the necessity of prioritizing diversity and inclusivity within literature, especially considering the various communication modalities present in today's world. Ultimately, this investigation contributes to ongoing efforts to promote diversity, inclusion, and understanding in children’s literature.
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