Banned! Tell Us What You Think.
October 1st, 2008 by Lauren Yannotta
These books represent just some of the titles that have been challenged in libraries and schools across the country. Many of these titles represent the best literature of the 20th century and are often used in classes here at Hunter College. Other titles are just fun reads! Many of you probably grew up on Harry Potter and the Goosebumps series. Tell us which books are your favorites and why! Also, can you guess why these titles are/were controversial? Use the reply box below and share your opinions.
4 Responses to “Banned! Tell Us What You Think.”
October 1st, 2008 at 8:25 am
To Kill a Mocking bird was an assigned book in High School when I was growing up in St.Vincent and the Grenadines. We were not too happy with the title and I thought it would be about killing birds. Well, what did I know, once I started reading it it was clear that I would never judge a book by its cover or title for that matter. I was given a reality check on racisim and rape. The curse words were there but we knew that we were not to use them. We learned that you should not judge people or assume to know what it is like to be like them until get under their skin and walk around in their shoes. It is still and will always be one of my most favorite books.
October 1st, 2008 at 11:02 am
The fact that books are challenged based on “sex scenes” which are actually rape just adds an extra-ridiculous layer of sexist insult to the already-ridiculous injury of attempted censorship in the first place.
I can’t possibly imagine why James and the Giant Peach was challenged – too many scandelous talking bugs?
October 1st, 2008 at 1:14 pm
This entry from Bookslut explains why James and the Giant Peach has been challenged in different locations, from “magic and witchcraft” to “encouraging children to disobey adults” (ha!):
http://www.bookslut.com/banned_bookslut/2003_12_001147.php
I am grateful to have had parents who encouraged reading, learning and curiosity and didn’t shy away from potentially incendiary topics – can you imagine growing up without reading Judy Blume’s books?
September 1st, 2009 at 8:23 pm
Def some good info here – keep it coming
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