Final answer:
Exposing children to multicultural literature is important for providing a complete historical understanding, fostering identities in marginalized groups, guiding children towards diverse reading, and reducing prejudices.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is important to purposefully expose children to multicultural and international literature because such exposure does several things. Firstly, it adds the perspective of disenfranchised groups, providing a more complete understanding of history and current events. Moreover, adult guidance in selecting these books is crucial since children might not independently seek them out.
Reading diverse literature also helps young people from marginalized groups build a stronger sense of identity, and it can reduce the likelihood of developing prejudices against people who differ from themselves. This is because literature is a cultural relic that reflects human experiences, allowing readers to learn about society and themselves. Embracing a multicultural approach in education and literature helps in forming a more inclusive and empathetic society. Including a variety of authors and stories can contribute to a richer literary education and a more equitable representation of different voices and experiences.