Banned Books Week was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores and libraries, their targets ranging from books that explore contemporary issues and controversies to classic and beloved works of American literature.
Topping the 2009 list of the American Library Association’s Top Ten list of the Most Frequently Challenged Books is Lauren Myracle’s best-selling young adult novel series TTYL, the first-ever novels written entirely in the style of instant messaging. MY SISTER'S KEEPER by Jodi Picoult, CATCHER IN THE RYE by J. D. Salinger--and one of my favorite books for its humor, grit and heartwarming realism, THE EARTH, MY BUTT, and OTHER BIG, ROUND THINGS by Carolyn Mackler, also appear.
“Even though not every book will be right for every reader, the ability to read, speak, think and express ourselves freely are core American values,” says Barbara Jones, the director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom. “Protecting one of our most fundamental rights – the freedom to read – means respecting each other’s differences and the right of all people to choose for themselves what they and their families read.”
For more information on book challenges and censorship, please visit the ALA Office website.
And please leave a comment, offering up your supportof Banned Books Week, and naming any favorite books that you know of that have been challenged.
Tina
Tina Ferraro
The ABC's of Kissing Boys
How to Hook a Hottie
Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Prom Dress
www.tinaferraro.com
Posts
4 comments:
I'm with you on The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things. I had no idea that it was on that list.
We knew as soon as we read about Banned Book Week that we needed to participate. What we didn't know was just how far little it takes for someone to say "censor" in relation to a book, especially with some of the things we've seen on TV and movies lately. http://www.abffe.com/bbw-booklist.htm has a list of banned books along with the reason for some of them.
Yea for you guys!!! I checked out the ALA site--I'm glad that there are so many people standing up against censorship!!!!
Great post! Here's to Banned Book week!
Post a Comment