I am currently a doctoral student in the Language & Literacy program at BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development. My research is located at the intersection of visual literacy, early childhood, and race & racism; I investigate how young children process and make meaning of racial content and messaging in picture books.
I believe that the stories and images children encounter early in life shape how they understand themselves, others, and the world around them. I’m particularly interested in moments in which children begin to question and confront instances of bias or structural inequity in the media they consume.
In addition to my research, I work with educators and organizations to translate these ideas into practical, classroom-ready strategies. Before beginning my PhD, I was the children’s librarian at the Bank Street College of Education in New York City. There, I co-developed the Loudness in the Library curriculum, which empowers middle school students to think critically about identity and bias. I served on the 2016 Newbery Committee for the most distinguished contribution to children’s literature, and on numerous other children’s literature award committees. I also co-created the blog Reading While White: Working For Racial Diversity and Inclusion in Books for Children and Teens.
Across my work, I aim to bridge research and practice. My goal is to support adults who help children engage thoughtfully and critically with the stories and images they encounter.
Allie Jane Bruce 