Have you ever read a book that was 'banned' by your school? Do you question the popularity of book censorship, or do you believe that pieces of literature should be regulated among students?
Banned Book Week (Sep. 18-24) is a national program created by The American library Association (ALA) which celebrates the freedom to read. It further offers information on select banned books within certain schools and institutions, the ability to report a ban, a list of the top 10 banned books in multiple school districts, and free downloads of your favorites.
The goal of book challenges is to restrict or remove content-based materials or services. Content such as racial material, political opinions, LGBTQIA+ topics, anti-police material, propaganda, and graphic illustrations are examples of materials that are commonly challenged.
“At Watauga High School, we have established procedures for any book that classes read,” said Keana Triplett, curriculum specialist and a former North Carolina Teacher of the Year. “Parents know in advance the texts that are read through the class syllabi, and any concerns are discussed in a parent-teacher conference.”
Students at Watauga read a wide range of texts for summer reading and personal interest.
“Slaughterhouse-Five was the first journey of my 2022 summer. If the power to ban books was any greater than it is now, I wouldn't have had the pleasure of meeting the great characters of Kurt Vonnegut's imagination, and being changed by them,” said Raffael Vazques, a junior at Watauga High School. “I recently discovered that Slaughterhouse-Five has gone through 18 banning attempts [in other school districts]. Some, like the burning of 32 copies by a North Dakota school board principal in 1973 have been successful, others not so much.”
Teachers and school staff can occasionally have an impact on what we read for enjoyment. Most of the time, the books that teens read are within a curriculum for English classes.
“When I first read Lord Of The Flies, I was a freshman, and this story was a tough read, especially for the time I was reading it,” said Caleb Chrisohon, junior. “The book dealt with topics that were dark and it was something like I had never read. When talking about banned books I can see why this is one of them, but I do feel that this book is necessary to see that not everything in literature is perfect. I enjoyed the book, but it was very dark.”
Novels, specifically those for high school audiences, may contain strong language or provoking scenes. Often these books describe challenging problems within society. Some question whether we should allow students, who are adolescents, to read such mature material.
English teachers at Watauga do have a Plan B. English teachers may choose a different book for a student, not originally in the traditional book selection if one of their students finds the first option to be unsettling or discouraging, but the alternative still adheres to the lesson plan and conveys the lesson being taught.
“All of our teachers provide alternative text options that are discussed with the student and families at these [parent teacher] meetings so a well-informed decision can be made based on what is in the best interest of the student,” said Triplett.
Watauga currently has a Media and Technology Advisory Committee (MTAC) that reviews assigned material. A parent and student sit on this advisory group. English teachers send home a syllabus which outlines the major works of study.
Here at Watauga High School, our MTAC and local school board have not opted to ban a book, but teachers do navigate parent concerns throughout the year. Currently, students can walk into the library and check out a copy of The Color Purple, a banned book since 1984, which is also taught in AP English Language and Composition classes within our school.
Watauga Librarian, Dana Lowery gives a final statement to represent the national week: “I’m with the banned!”
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