Banned Books Week

Post by Erin Gerber, Better World Books Partner ServicesI grew up in a house where I was never told we couldn’t read a particular book, which made my conversation with my fourth grade school librarian all the more confusing.  I desperately wanted to read the latest Judy Blume book, Blubber, for a book report, but was told I’d need to choose another title.  The school library, she explained, did not have a copy of the book because it contained inappropriate language and was not, therefore, a good choice for my project.  Every year, when Banned Books Week kicks off, I’m reminded of this story.

Of course, Blubber isn’t the only book that’s been challenged or banned.  J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, first published in 1960, has met challenges shortly after it’s publication through today.  A Wrinkle in Time, a science fiction-fantasy novel geared towards young adult readers (and one of my personal favorites), was number 22 on the American Library’s Association’s list of most challenged books from 1990-2000 for it’s frequent references to witchcraft and crystal balls.  More recently, And Tango Makes Three, the 2005 story of two male penguins who raise a motherless chick together, has also met repeated challenges.

Since 1982, Banned Books Week has raised awareness for books that have been challenged or banned.  Libraries and bookstores around the county coordinate events to celebrate the freedom to read these books.

We’d love to hear from from you–do you have a banned books story to share?