We are embarking upon Banned Book Week, and I urge everyone to read a challenged book. Show your support of open-mindedness, your willingness to explore a culture foreign to you, your unending thirst for thought-provoking ideas, even though you may not agree with them.
It is astounding and appalling to see the list of books that were burned, banned or challenged over time and to realize new books are targeted every year. How much less rich in intellect and spirit the world would be without:
HARRY POTTER
THE KITE RUNNER
THE GOLDEN COMPASS
BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA
IN THE NIGHT KITCHEN
THE LORD OF THE RINGS
THE CATCHER IN THE RYE
THE GRAPES OF WRATH
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
THE COLOR PURPLE
BELOVED
LORD OF THE FLIES
OF MICE AND MEN
BRAVE NEW WORLD
SLAUGHTERHOUSE FIVE
I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS
CATCH-22
The above is just a partial list. The American Library Association lists books challenged by year, as well as information on Banned Book Week, Sept. 26-Oct. 3. Author Laurie Halse Anderson wrote on her blog about challenges to SPEAK and TWISTED and shared part of her thoughtful defense of her books. Her post and the comments section are well worth your time to read.
Also check out the Book Kids interview with E. Lockhart about a challenge to THE BOY BOOK.
