The burning of books by Jewish authors in Nazi Germany, the rejection of books on evolution and science by religious conservatives, and the removal of Green Eggs and Ham from the country of China are well known examples of book banning. Controversy over censorship has existed for as long as authors have written books. As early as 360 B.C., Plato wrote of censoring the writings of others. Several religious and political groups, as well as parent groups, assert that books they deem offensive should be banned and that they should designate what is made available for children to read. Those who champion First Amendment rights would challenge that books should never be banned because books, no matter their content, allow intellectual freedom
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Material deemed by some as offensive can help children experiencing similar situations realize that they are not alone in their struggles. Books portraying difficult topics can build compassion, and understanding by exposing children to different life circumstances. Chris Crutcher’s book Whale Talk, explores the topic of verbal and physical abuse through the relationship of a little girl and her step-father. Though banned as inappropriate subject matter for children, it conveys a harsh reality for many. Themes containing homosexuality are a frequent cause for book banning. An absence of homosexual characters and relationships in literature further isolates people who are homosexual and reduces understanding and acceptance from others. Linda Harvey, president of Mission America, agrees that books portraying homosexual themes and characters expand the view of the reader, while educating and reducing stigma. In contrast, others like Rebecca Hagelin, author of Home Invasion, believe exposure to certain topics is damaging and that it is appropriate to ban content from schools and public libraries, including books containing profanity, sexual implications/acts, and other topics determined as unsuitable for children. Though some suggest that parents should be responsible for determining suitable content for their children, this is difficult to do once a book is banned from libraries and
Material deemed by some as offensive can help children experiencing similar situations realize that they are not alone in their struggles. Books portraying difficult topics can build compassion, and understanding by exposing children to different life circumstances. Chris Crutcher’s book Whale Talk, explores the topic of verbal and physical abuse through the relationship of a little girl and her step-father. Though banned as inappropriate subject matter for children, it conveys a harsh reality for many. Themes containing homosexuality are a frequent cause for book banning. An absence of homosexual characters and relationships in literature further isolates people who are homosexual and reduces understanding and acceptance from others. Linda Harvey, president of Mission America, agrees that books portraying homosexual themes and characters expand the view of the reader, while educating and reducing stigma. In contrast, others like Rebecca Hagelin, author of Home Invasion, believe exposure to certain topics is damaging and that it is appropriate to ban content from schools and public libraries, including books containing profanity, sexual implications/acts, and other topics determined as unsuitable for children. Though some suggest that parents should be responsible for determining suitable content for their children, this is difficult to do once a book is banned from libraries and