Analysis of Aytül Akal's story books in the context of gender

This study analyzed storybooks written by Aytül Akal, a children's literature author, in the context of gender roles. The study, which aimed to analyze how gender roles are reflected in Aytül Akal's story books and whether the books support these roles, used a qualitative research design. The data source selected using the purposive (monographic-theoretical) sampling method included the author's 15 story books addressed to primary school age. Data were analyzed using the document analysis method and collected under categories that included gender distribution, choice of profession, places, personality traits, actions performed, family work sharing, and games and object choices of male and female characters in the stories. The collected data were interpreted using descriptive analysis. The categories created were supported with direct quotations from the storybooks. The results showed that the male and female characters in Aytül Akal's storybooks are portrayed according to the traditional norms of gender as well as in roles that question and do not support these norms. The characters seem to create a bridge between traditional and contemporary life. While some results indicated data supporting gender stereotypes in the characters' choice of profession, actions they performed, and the sharing of work within the family, a more contemporary approach was detected in the story books in terms of gender distribution and the places where the characters were found. In addition, although some statements were found to support gender in terms of play and object selection and personality traits, this finding was not very intensive. In line with these findings, the study had some recommendations for parents, educators, and authors. It is recommended that children should read books containing egalitarian, democratic, and universal values and be provided with guidance to gain critical thinking skills. Keywords: Gender roles, children's literature, Aytül Akal, book review