Book Bann

I_Am_Best

Parents should not ban books. There is more to a book than a bit of controversy, books that are considered "inappropriate" are usually much more realistic and can teach kids about relatable situations. Furthermore, while a parent can choose what they want their children to read, they cannot ban a book for every other child. Judgment on which books can be read should be based on professional judgment.

Deeders87

Parents are adults and have earned the right to determine what children should read at a young age. Usually a group or committee is formed to determine whether assigned materials are appropriate or not for a given age range. If a majority of a committee determines reading inappropriate for the age group, then they represent the parent population and should have the ability to say yes or no. The request to ban books demonstrates parent involvement and the desire to protect children. According to Eleanor Barkhorn, though banning books is a scary idea, "it's even scarier to think of a country where books are so irrelevant, parents don't even care enough to complain" (Barkhorn, 2010). Content within the story may be relevant, but books are not the only source where kids can get this controversial information. Children can always read the books when they get older when it is there choice. People can get access to any books, including those banned in schools and libraries. The negativity associated with banning books comes primarily from the children who have the restrictions placed upon them. A solution may be for libraries to have a section in their building for banned books that only people of a certain age level can access using their library cards. 

Barkhorn, Eleanor. “Why We Want Parents to Try to Ban Books.” The Atlantic, Atlantic Media Company, 17 Apr. 2010, https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2010/04/why-we-want-parents-to-try-to-ban-books/39089/.