Censorship Activity

Beth Gordon

Censorship Activity
REOL 536

1.  Read 2-3 of the adolescent/ young adult books lists of most censored books in this overview:

 

A.  In a few paragraphs per book, describe why you think each novel has been censored so often.  Provide concrete examples to support your assertions.

HARRY POTTER SERIES           

            I think the Harry Potter (Series) by J.K. Rowling has been censored because the series presents dangerous ideas and attitudes that are bad for readers. The series promote witchcraft; they set bad examples; and they're too dark.

            Since there is witchcraft in the books it confuses students to whether it is good or bad.  The portrayal of the books displays a good message.  I believe it is confusing to children when something immoral is being made to look fun and exciting, which sets a bad example for students.
            The books are somewhat inappropriate reading because of the way Harry and his friends behave. The main character, Harry, "lies, breaks rules, and disobeys authority figures, including the professors at Hogwarts," and that he ends up being rewarded and praised for his actions, which isn’t something to be praised for. 
            Also, are too dark and scary for children to handle. The series begins as Harry is orphaned, and he soon learns his parents were violently killed. There are intense battles. Good people die, sudden and horrible deaths.  What is that teaching our children?
            On the other hand, there are many students who love these books and I don’t want to take away their love of reading at all.  Students know these are not true so I am not sure why it is such a big deal.

           
BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA

            Although, a couple years ago Bridge to Terabithia was used in one of our literature circle groups, there are some inappropriate words in the book.  We had previously marked out those words with a permanent marker in the book.
            I could also see where the book would give somewhat of a negative view of life.  The book elaborates on a fantasy world which students may think could exist in their lives too and completely confuse them.
            Near the end, there are some things that could definitely upset some children.  For example, Jesse goes on a trip to Washington, D.C. with his art teacher. While he’s gone Leslie tries to go to Terabithia by herself, but the rope breaks. She hits her head on a rock and drowns in the creek. Since that is very sad for Jesse, it could truly hurt and bring back emotions of the student’s memory of their loved one dying.
            Once again, I don’t think this book is truly inappropriate, it just needs mature and upper elementary and middle school students.

B.        B. Assume you were to select one or more of these books to teach.  Explain what you might do to limit the likelihood of censorship drawing upon readings for this unit for ideas.

            If I were to choose Bridge to Terabithia again in my reading class, I would send home a letter to parents explaining the book, letting them know what it’s about, and be sure to get their input if they want their child exposed to what is in the book.

            As for the words in the book, I would make sure they were all blacked out with sharpies and students couldn’t see them.  For my unit I would make sure each lesson that went along with the book was exceptional and meeting all standards needed for reading.