Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Banned and Challenged Books
Last week we talked a bit about banned books, especially since Slaughterhouse-Five is one of the most frequently challenged/banned. When I was looking up info, I was surprised at how many of my favorite books are on the lists for the most frequently challenged. Whether or not the reasons for challenging these books are valid depends on the individual's point of view, but it just made me sad to look at these lists. Many books are challenged "to protect children." But, those books are often written for an adult age group, so children probably wouldn't be reading them anyway. What bugs me the most though, is that so many wonderful books are challenged, often by people who haven't even read them. So, while I think books shouldn't be banned, I have this to say to anyone who wants to challenge one. PLEASE READ IT FIRST!
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I agree. People take parts of the books out of context and use those to make them seem worse. I've also read a bunch of the challenged books, and they haven't "corrupted" me or made me want to perform witchcraft. These books often have the best lessons, and it's a shame to ban them.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way. For the most part, people who would be reading these books are old enough to make the decision for themselves, and they're usually mature enough to handle the subject matter. Also, I agree, you can't challenge a book without reading it.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely agree with this. I don't understand why people think that they can pass judgement on something they don't actually know anything about...but that hasn't stopped anybody! Most of my favorite books from childhood and from school are on these lists, but that may have to do with how popular these books are. I can say that I have never tried to ride a broom or play quidditch because of a book.
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