Picture books in dialects

Abstract

The present study is concerned with the possibilities of using picture books in language learning. In this respect, text and image play equally important roles. As language learning has become increasingly important in recent years, there is wide range of books on offer if the child is learning standard English or German, or possibly French or Italian. But what is the choice if the books are in a non-standard dialect? In fact, what kind of books suitable for children are available if parents and educators want to kindle their interest in one of the dialects of Hungary‘s German-speaking minority? What are the textual and aesthetic characteristics of such books? In light of language attrition among Hungary‘s ethnic Germans the task is not a simple one. This study focuses on this issue, with the authors offering overseas examples, too, to help realise this objective.