Society's Changes Shape Our Reading Choices

Picture this: you’re wandering around your go-to bookstore or local library. As you scan the books, have you ever paused to think about the adventures some books have had before landing there? Let’s embark on a journey through time, from the late 20th century to now, and discover how changing societal opinions have led to some books being cast aside for their bold themes or daring language.

Take “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, for example. This iconic American novel has won hearts with its profound insights on racial injustice and bravery. However, its honest depiction of racism, complete with racial slurs, has caused some schools and libraries to push it off their shelves.

Then, there’s the magical world of the “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling. It may surprise you, but these beloved tales of wizardry have brewed their own potion of controversy. Why? Some believe these books wave the wand a bit too much towards witchcraft, clashing with certain religious views. Hence, some places have deemed them unwelcome.

Transitioning to other masterpieces, we find “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger and “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker. Both have faced criticism for their raw and straightforward look at life’s tough challenges, ranging from self-discovery to confronting trauma and injustice.

However, here’s a twist: banning books isn’t just about shielding young eyes from “mature” content. It’s deeper, and dare I say, more controversial. Who really has the right to judge what’s appropriate for us to read?

Every year, the American Library Association (ALA) champions the freedom to read by celebrating “Banned Books Week.” They passionately argue that the choice of what to read should be yours and mine, not a decision made by a few.

But, wait a minute, let’s consider the other side. Many parents and educators feel they’re standing guard, ensuring young readers don’t dive into themes too deep or complex for their age. They believe that certain narratives might toss kids into a sea of adult themes way before they’re ready to swim.

The tug-of-war over book bans in recent decades reminds us of a tightrope walk: how do we balance nurturing young minds with preserving the freedom to think and explore? It challenges us to reflect on our societal values and how literature portrays them.