DESIGN OF CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOKS: VISUAL NARRATIVES

Abstract

Purpose. The objective of this study is to explore the features of designing children’s picture books that align with the cognitive characteristics and preferences of children. The aim is to foster their emotional and aesthetic abilities through the study of narrative structures of images and other elements of children’s picture books. Methodology. This paper employs a comprehensive approach that includes the analysis of scholarly works in the fields of graphic design, visual narrative research, and cognitive psychology. Visual analysis and comparative methods are utilized to examine the narrative structure, techniques, and methods employed in children’s picture books. Results. The analysis of graphic arrangements of various elements in children’s picture books highlights the following visual narratives, which play a positive role in helping children comprehend the storyline: single-line, thematic juxtaposition, and fractal narrative. The single-line narrative structure is well-suited for creating a clear storyline that corresponds to children’s cognitive habits. Thematic juxtaposition enables the simultaneous exploration of multiple storylines, providing children with a multidimensional reading experience. The fractal visual narrative ensures variability in plot development, stimulating imagination. Techniques such as juxtaposition of time and space across different illustrations, highlighting small separate images to control the narrative pace, and others are employed to enhance story progression and reading appeal. Particular attention is paid to the interaction between symbolic systems (text, images, colors) to ensure the completeness of visual narratives in children’s publications. Scientific novelty. The study refines the role of visual narration as the foundation for constructing a story world and presents various types of visual narratives in children’s picture books, including the structure of their components, such as text and images. It thoroughly examines the relationship between different narrative forms and techniques of text-image interaction. Approaches are proposed for designing illustrated books, taking into account the cognitive and emotional abilities of the children’s audience. Practical relevance. The findings of the study can be used by designers and illustrators to create children’s picture books that align with educational goals and children’s interests. Practical recommendations on book design, including options for organizing multidimensional structures of graphic elements, will help attract children to reading, enhance the appeal of books, and improve learning efficiency.