Multimodal children’s books in Turkey: illustrated books and picture books

Abstract

Picturebooks represent an underdeveloped potential in Turkey, given the depth and richness of the country’s literary and visual heritage. The growth of children’s books in Turkey with almost 14 percent market share among other publications faces numerous challenges, some of which are faced by children’s literature overall. Institutions in Turkey have historically played a role in the development of children’s literature, including the picturebooks. Ibrahim Mütefferrika initiated the first printing house during the Ottoman Empire in the 18th century, printing a book in Turkish in 1729. The role of institutions in the rise of an emergent group of picturebook artists and academic specialists such as the Nazan Erkmen was critical, particularly the role of fine arts universities like the Mimar Sinan, Marmara and Gazi. The expansion in the children’s books market is visible especially at the International Istanbul Book Fair.