Little people, also known as dwarfs or individuals with dwarfism, have long been a subject of fascination and curiosity for many people. The entertainment industry has often exploited this fascination by employing little people to portray various characters, including mascots. However, this practice has sparked controversy and debate regarding the ethical treatment of little people in the industry. On one hand, supporters argue that casting little people as mascots can provide them with employment opportunities that may not be available otherwise. By giving them a platform to showcase their talent and skill, it challenges societal norms and promotes inclusivity. Furthermore, some argue that little people have a unique perspective and physical attributes that can enhance the portrayal of certain characters, such as fantasy creatures or storybook figures.
Scholastic has just revealed the cover for this penultimate volume right here on The Beat. With the story winding up, this volume finds the Hayes family facing ever greater mysteries and dangers. Though understandbly tight-lipped about the storyline, Kibuishi did answer a few questions for us:
It s a thrilling steampunk fantasy saga of elves, robots, airships, ancient societies and much more, all rendered with Kibuishi s imaginative and intense artwork. It s a thrilling steampunk fantasy saga of elves, robots, airships, ancient societies and much more, all rendered with Kibuishi s imaginative and intense artwork.
Furthermore, some argue that little people have a unique perspective and physical attributes that can enhance the portrayal of certain characters, such as fantasy creatures or storybook figures. In these cases, casting little people as mascots can result in a more authentic and immersive experience for audiences. Nevertheless, critics assert that this practice can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce societal prejudices towards little people.
COVER REVEAL: The end of the Amulet saga nears in Vol. 8: Supernova
Kazu Kibuishi’s Amulet series has quietly become one of the most loved graphic novel series for kids over the last decade. I say “quietly,” because most comics industry people don’t mention it, but I see kids reading it on the streets and around town all the time. It’s a #1 NY Times Bestseller and is a mainstay of the entire Scholastic Graphix line.
Amulet launched in 2008 with The Stonekeeper and 7 volumes out of a planned 9 have appeared since then. Kibuishi has carefully crafted a rich fantasy saga that starts when Emily Hayes finds her great-grandfather’s mysterious amulet, and continues as she and her brother, Navin, must navigate a strange new world filled with challenges to find their kidnapped mother. It’s a thrilling steampunk fantasy saga of elves, robots, airships, ancient societies and much more, all rendered with Kibuishi’s imaginative and intense artwork.
Scholastic has just revealed the cover for this penultimate volume right here on The Beat. With the story winding up, this volume finds the Hayes family facing ever greater mysteries and dangers. Though understandbly tight-lipped about the storyline, Kibuishi did answer a few questions for us:
THE BEAT: You’ve said that this is the most difficult project you’ve ever worked on. What made it such a challenge?
KAZU KIBUISHI: The list of new difficulties is a long one, but the one that had the biggest impact on the amount of research I had to do is the addition of major science fiction sequences. I knew that I would need to shift gears and I was looking forward to trying my hand at the genre, but I didn’t quite expect what a mammoth task this would be. So much of what we write in fantasy is rooted in examining the past, but with science fiction, we are examining the past and assessing the present to speculate about the future. Recognizing this has pushed me to study more current books and to do more research in various fields. On top of this, I am trying to make sure I set up for the ending of the series properly, and that has required exploring what that end might look like, then trekking back to the book I’m working on so I know how and where to build the narrative paths. Again, the list is long, and I could keep going.
THE BEAT: Without giving anything away, any hints as to what happens to Em and the Hayes family?
KIBUISHI: If their past actions and strength of character are any indication, I think they will be all right.
THE BEAT: 2018 is the 10th anniversary of the first Amulet book. Have you had the same ending in mind the whole time or has it changed much?
KIBUISHI: The same ending, but I feel I am beginning to understand it more.
Amulet #8: Supernova comes out on September 25, 2018.
Editor’s Note: An earlier version of the cover was run in the previous version of this post. Here is the correct cover.
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THE BEAT: You’ve said that this is the most difficult project you’ve ever worked on. What made it such a challenge?
They argue that casting little people as mascots can reduce their roles to mere objects of amusement, rather than individuals with genuine talent and potential. This can lead to the objectification and dehumanization of little people, further marginalizing them in society. Critics also highlight the lack of representation and opportunities for little people in other, more diverse and complex roles, limiting their presence and contributions in the entertainment industry. In response to these concerns, there has been a growing call for more inclusive and respectful casting practices. Advocates for change argue that instead of solely relying on little people to portray mascots, the industry should prioritize diverse casting in all roles, including those traditionally associated with little people. This would not only provide more opportunities for little people but also challenge societal stereotypes and foster a more inclusive environment for all individuals. In conclusion, the casting of little people as mascots in the entertainment industry remains a topic of debate, with arguments both for and against this practice. While some argue that it provides employment opportunities and promotes inclusivity, others caution against the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes. To move towards a more inclusive and respectful industry, it is important to encourage diverse casting and representation, challenging traditional norms and fostering inclusivity for all individuals, regardless of their physical attributes..
Reviews for "The Importance of Representation: Little People in Mascot Roles"
- Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Little People vs Mascots Cast". I found the humor to be tasteless and offensive, as it relied heavily on making fun of people with physical differences. This completely overshadowed any potential entertainment value and left me feeling uncomfortable and disgusted. I would not recommend watching this film.
- John - 1 star - "Little People vs Mascots Cast" was simply awful. The concept itself is problematic and insensitive, as it perpetuates harmful stereotypes about little people. Additionally, the acting was subpar and the plot was non-existent. I had high hopes for this film, but it was a complete letdown. Save yourself the time and skip this one.
- Emily - 2 stars - I found "Little People vs Mascots Cast" to be incredibly offensive and disrespectful towards little people. The film seemed to exploit their physical differences for cheap laughs, which is not only distasteful but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes. I was disappointed in the lack of sensitivity and would not recommend this film to anyone.