I asked my sons' librarian if the Harry Potter books were banned at their school. She said no, she would never ban any book, but did have them in a special bookcase for children who asked. Yes, there were parents concerned about witchcraft.
Good blog, Warren. I am torn on the topic of re-writing literature to conform with current sensibilities as the books were products of their times. I am pleased with the Dr. Seuss Enterprises decision to not republish, and perhaps that would be a better solution than rewriting. Simply let the books die a natural death.
Literature is a reflection of its time. As we evolve in our sensitivity, attitudes will change. We've certainly been dealing with this issue for a while now--the first I remember being vey aware of the situation was with Huckleberry Finn.
good points, Warren.
ReplyDeleteI asked my sons' librarian if the Harry Potter books were banned at their school. She said no, she would never ban any book, but did have them in a special bookcase for children who asked. Yes, there were parents concerned about witchcraft.
ReplyDeleteInteresting analysis
ReplyDeleteGood blog, Warren. I am torn on the topic of re-writing literature to conform with current sensibilities as the books were products of their times. I am pleased with the Dr. Seuss Enterprises decision to not republish, and perhaps that would be a better solution than rewriting. Simply let the books die a natural death.
ReplyDeleteLiterature is a reflection of its time. As we evolve in our sensitivity, attitudes will change. We've certainly been dealing with this issue for a while now--the first I remember being vey aware of the situation was with Huckleberry Finn.
ReplyDelete