This entry is part of an ongoing conversation taking place from time to time at File770, among other locations. As is frequently the case in passionate discussions, the topic tends to shift depending on the speaker.
For the most part, my interlocutors are aghast at the many legislative efforts to limit the books that are available in public libraries and public schools. And honestly? I share their concerns. Many of the books that end up being impacted by these initiatives are things that I read decades ago. Many of the newer titles are equally unworthy of attention either legislative or administrative.
Reasonable people can disagree about the relative merit of a children's book that features a farting main character. No reasonable person would suggest locking up a teacher or a librarian for including it in a school library.
The problem is that books featuring farting characters, or books by George Orwell (irony!) are not the subject matter that is driving the issue. Focusing on farting characters or on "To Kill a Mockingbird" or any other largely inoffensive work is a purposeful attempt to deflect the discussion away from the core issue.
Sexualizing children.
What follows is very much my part of an adult discussion that involves adult materials. If raw images of sexual body parts offend you, then please move on to something else. I have some very nice book reviews to read.
For everyone else...
