Controversial Books: What Makes Them Controversial?

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The American Library Association states that controversial books that are challenged are often done so “... to protect children from “inappropriate” sexual content or “offensive” language. The following were the top three reasons cited for challenging materials as reported to the Office of Intellectual Freedom:

1. the material was considered to be "sexually explicit"
2. the material contained "offensive language"
3. the materials was "unsuited to any age group" ” (ALA, 2011)

The American Library Association also states that “...according to the Challenges by Initiator, Institution, Type, and Year, parents challenge materials more often than any other group.” (ALA, 2011) I found the link above very interesting in regards to this topic. I hope that you will take the time to visit the link “Challenges by Initiator, Institution, Type, and Year.” The American Library Association has done a phenomenal job at keeping records on this subject.

In my opinion, we live in a world of great division. Many ideas, beliefs, and customs are shared, agreed upon, challenged, revised, disagreed upon, and ever changing. Although challenges are often done with good intentions by the challenger the rights of all individuals must be considered and protected.

References:

American Library Association. (2011). Number of challenges by year, reason, initiator & institution. Retrieved from http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/frequentlychallenged/challengesbytype/index.cfm

 American Library Association. (2011). About banned & challenged books. Retrieved from http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/aboutbannedbooks/index.cfm

 

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