Typically, I celebrate banned books week by checking out a book from my local library (or pulling one off of my bookshelf at home) that is included in the 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books that ALA mentions on their website under the Intellectual Freedom section.
Like many avid readers, I grew up with these books and I challenge each and every adult to read each and every one of the books from this list. Whether you agree with the ideas, values, or opinions that are expressed within these pages, I do believe there is something to be said for having the freedom to share one's thoughts, in writing, and having the equal right to close the cover of a book that might offend us, or make us feel uncomfortable in some way.
If you're not already familiar with the books on this list, or the fact that there is such a list, I encourage you to look it over. You'll find such classics included such as Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird as well as books by Judy Blume, Mem Fox, Stephen King and Mark Twain. You'll also find Where's Waldo? on this list so you just never know who or what might prompt a book to become "challenged."
A great librarian in the state of California lost his job recently due to what some may view as insubordination. Others consider his loyalty to literacy and his stand against censorship a sign of his commitment to young readers as he continues to encourage them to explore the world through literature.
Censorship (of all kinds) has been an issue for decades, Banned Books Weektakes place every September - which just goes to show that this battle is far from over.
We at Kane/Miller have experienced many complaints over the years for our books that (god, forbid) teach young children to be OK with their bodies (Breasts, Everyone Poops) or illustrating the process of birth (Contemplating Your Bellybutton). While we respect each person's opinion we also hold a great deal of respect for all of those who fight for intellectual freedom.
Thank you librarians and booksellers for all you do to keep (all) the books on the shelves, and for providing readers with the freedom to decide for themselves.
From Greece Unique Monique Written by Maria Rousaki Illustrated by Polina Papanikolaou
There are plenty more stories of shocked and horrified readers who took the time to send us their personal complaints (and philosophies) about such books as Unique Monique and Something is Not Quite Right!, to name just a few. In fact, just a few weeks ago we had a lively discussion about creating a new campaign with stickers for our retailer customers to include on their signage: Educational Porn Sold Here!
One has to have a sense of humor about these sort of things.
