Women’s Revolution, a Revolution in Progress: Gender Representation in Children’s Literature Through Raquel Costa’s 25 Mulheres

MOTA ROBOREDO AMANTE, FÁTIMA SUSANA

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.19/9544

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Authors

MOTA ROBOREDO AMANTE, FÁTIMA SUSANA

Abstract(s)

This article examines Raquel Costa’s 25 Mulheres, a children’s book celebrating the 50th anniversary of Portugal’s Carnation Revolution. Designed for readers around 10–11 years old, yet equally compelling for adults due to its layered meanings and nuanced themes, the book features 25 alphabetically organised stories of ordinary women, reflecting their diverse lives and experiences within Portuguese society. This structure provides a captivating entry point for discussing gender equality and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of the Carnation Revolution, which ended decades of authoritarian rule and marked significant progress for women’s rights, the book uses its historical context to inspire contemporary dialogue. Significant themes include freedom, empowerment, equality, and identity while addressing topics such as disability, reproductive rights, domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ experiences. Each story challenges traditional gender norms, offering readers examples of resilience and courage. Costa’s illustrations enhance the narrative, combining vibrant and subdued tones to capture the essence of each woman’s story. Unlike conventional narratives, Costa’s work highlights anonymous, everyday women, creating a mosaic of voices that resonate across ages. By exploring the portrayal of gender roles and societal expectations, this article assesses the book’s impact on fostering an understanding of historical and contemporary issues related to women’s rights. This study underscores the importance of integrating feminist perspectives into children’s literature to promote intergenerational dialogue and ongoing reflection on gender equality

Keywords

Children’s literature Gender representation Carnation revolution Portuguese history and culture Women’s rights

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.19/9544

Citation

Amante, S. (2025). Women’s Revolution, a Revolution in Progress: Gender Representation in Children’s Literature Through Raquel Costa’s 25 Mulheres. Children’s Literature in Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10583-025-09617-y