Transnational parent knowledge in storied lived experiences: a critical narrative review of multicultural picturebooks

Purpose This study aims to explore how multicultural picturebooks portray transnational parent knowledge and, crucially, in what ways they challenge dominant, often simplified, narratives of migration through depictions of parental agency. Design/methodology/approach Using a critical narrative review of ten purposefully selected picturebooks, this study uses thematic synthesis to examine how visual and textual elements represent transnational parent knowledge and their role in disrupting conventional migration tropes. Findings Thematic analysis reveals how these picturebooks vividly depict transnational parent knowledge, emphasizing parental strategies for fostering resilience, bilingualism and bicultural identity negotiation. These findings explicitly demonstrate how the books function as powerful counter-narratives, showcasing active parental agency in preserving cultural ties and guiding children through complex migration challenges. Research limitations/implications This study contributes to scholarship in multicultural children’s literature and transnational studies by centering parental agency and highlighting the counter-narrative potential of these books in migration discourse. Practical implications Educators and parents can use these books to foster culturally inclusive discussions on migration, identity and bilingualism, providing mirrors for transnational children and windows for all. Originality/value By foregrounding the knowledge and agency of transnational parents, this study challenges deficit-based views and underscores the strengths inherent within immigrant families and their dynamic cross-border experiences.