The Lorax: Dr. Suess
The Laytonville, California School District challenged this book on grounds that it "criminalizes the forestry industry."
Lord of the Flies: William Golding
A challenger in Owen, Nebraska claimed that this book was "demoralizing
inasmuch that it implies that man is little more than an animal."
Little Red Riding Hood: The Grimm Brothers
A personal favorite: This children's fairy tell depicts Little Red Riding Hood bringing her grandmother a basket which contained, among other things, a bottle of wine. The story was challenged in Empire, California.
Gone With the Wind: Margaret Mitchell
This classic has been banned in various places for its use of the word "nigger."
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: Mark Twain
What is interesting about Huck Finn is the various reasons for which it has been banned over the years. Censors originally claimed that the book was too kind in its depiction of African Americans, as it portrays "nigger Jim" as a hero. Recent censors complain that the book is demeaning to African Americans because of the ues of the word "nigger."
Doris Day: Her Own Story: Doris Day
An Alabama censor banned this book in 1982, claiming that it conflicted with Day's "All American Image."
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings: Maya Angelou
This book is frequently targeted because of its subject matter; Angelou depicts her life and the rape she suffered as a child.
Of Mice and Men: John Steinbeck
This novel has been criticized for everything from offensive language to negative depiction of the mentally retarded. One censor claimed that Steinbeck's masterpiece had "no literary value."
The Giver: Lois Lowry
This award winning author's novel has been dubbed as being "violent," "sexually explicit," and using "offensive
language," and for its treatment of infanticide and euthanasia.
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Education for a Sustainable Future
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Threats to Free Speech
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The Childrens' Book Controversy
Freedom FROM Religion?
Ray Bradbury on Censorship
Email: mozart9@ibm.net
