Who-What-When:
Banned Books Week is here! Sept 29th – Oct 6th
Get on the Page – chats about books, writing, and LIFE
2007 Banned Books Week: Ahoy! Treasure Your Freedom to Read and Get Hooked on a Banned Book
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Controversy! Controversy! When teens go for books that catch their attention, intrigue them, or suck them in because that book is what everyone's talking about, it makes me wonder... what's the big deal? I mean I know there's bad stuff out there... I don't want kids learning about devil worshipping practices (for some reason that's my limit), or taking in pornography (for obvious reasons), but there's real life out there in the world. When a book has some sexual content, profanity, or violence, I hope the author has a reason for it. I hope the writing is good enough that the book has literary value and a purposeful message. Hey, and what about freedom of speech and, yes, freedom to read? And if teen books didn't have these controversial scenes or elements, then what choices are we giving them to learn about the world and themselves?
TELL US about your Books! If parents worry about you or other teens reading controversial, or shall we say it? BANNED BOOKS, then that gives young people a reason to hide, sneak, and push parents and teachers away–that's no good. Let's engage in some conversation, people! Let's listen to what teens think and say about these books (even if it's only 2 words). And let's celebrate the freedom to read what you want. So... If YOU are a TEEN–send us the title and author of a controversial book at your home, school, library, or community. Tell us what the fuss is all about! and a few thoughts you have on the book–like WHY you like it or WHAT impact the book has had on you. We won't publish your name without your permission, and even then it's only first names. And... IF you feel strong about liking the book and you won't get in trouble for reading it, then send us your picture, stand up for other teens who need to hear your voice!
Email us at gacinfo@GirlsAreChampions.org and tell us the name of controversial books you like!
For a list of literature that has been reported or banned in other communities, go to www.ala.org click on Banned Books Week, then on How to Celebrate Banned Books Week.
"Get on the Page" pieces are written by Lisa Izzi
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