Around the World without Words: Exploring Outstanding International Book List Wordless Picturebooks

Abstract: Although research has been published on the multimodal components and pedagogical implications of wordless picturebooks available in the United States, research on international wordless books is needed. Wordless picturebooks from the Outstanding International Book (OIB) list, an initiative by the United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY), are examined in this article. This study, a qualitative content analysis of fifteen OIB wordless books published between 2013 and 2023, identified distinct visual components, overarching themes, and trends. The analysis revealed how visual and aesthetic elements, from design to color, and perspective facilitate multiple interpretations of complex narratives. This study also invites educators to use OIB wordless books with readers to further dialogue about the visual narratives offered and about the origin and creators of the books to support global awareness.