Book banning is back in the news (not that it ever left).
These 13 books are now banned from all Utah public schools:
“Blankets” by Craig Thompson.
“A Court of Frost and Starlight” by Sarah J. Maas.
“A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas.
“A Court of Silver Flames” by Sarah J. Maas.
“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas.
“A Court of Wings and Ruin” by Sarah J. Maas.
“Empire of Storms” by Sarah J. Maas.
“Fallout” by Ellen Hopkins.
“Forever” by Judy Blume.
“Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur.
“Oryx & Crake” by Margaret Atwood.
“Tilt” by Ellen Hopkins.
“What Girls Are Made Of” by Elana K. Arnold.
I have read only Oryx & Crake by Margaret Atwood and have no idea why it's on the ban list. The book explores dystopian themes, genetic engineering, and societal collapse.
I've passed up the Sarah Mass books many times because the audio versions are quite long, but I will listen to them now. The bans on Sarah J. Maas’s books are primarily due to concerns over explicit content and themes that some consider inappropriate for certain age groups. This includes sexual content and mature themes that have led to her books being labeled as “pornographic or indecent” in some places. Additionally, there have been criticisms regarding inclusivity and controversial themes.
The books are still available in public libraries and bookstores, just not schools. You know, the places where you learn stuff.
The funny thing is, most of the students wouldn't even bother without the bans. Years ago, I had a kiddo in class wiht a copy of Fifty Shades of Gray. I didn't make a big deal of it. She attempted to read it, got bored within two pages and put it away.
ReplyDeleteI am opposed to book banning, but I taught with people who thought it was okay. I could not relate to their train of thought at all.
ReplyDeleteIn Illinois, it's illegal for state-funded schools or libraries to ban books. I believe that's why Gov. Pritzker made Kamala's short list. (And I'm glad she didn't take him; we need him here.)
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