Censored Books II: Critical Viewpoints, 1985-2000 - Hardcover

Karolides, Nicholas J.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0810841479 ISBN 13: 9780810841475

Publisher: Scarecrow Press, 2002

Synopsis

Here is a whole new set of rationales to be used in defending challenged books. Beautifully reasoned arguments support the teaching of books that are frequently challenged by would-be censors. Karolides has chosen a wide range of literature, from Faulkner's As I Lay Dying to the contemporary bestselling Harry Potter books. Some books are challenged in the name of political correctness; others because of concern over violent or sexual content. The rationale, some written by the authors themselves, examine the value of each work as literature, its content relative to societal values, and the always thorny issue of what material actually constitutes "suitable" reading for young people. For librarians, teachers, and parents―and anyone concerned with intellectual freedom.

About this title

About the Author

Nicholas J. Karolides is Professor of English and Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Wisconsin, River Falls. He is also the author of 100 Banned Books.

Review

Teachers and librarians would find this reference a valuable resource for building collections, completing reading lists, choosing classroom books, supporting intellectual freedom, and providing students with reading guidance. (Library Talk)

Each essay is brief but packed with information and insights that show the value and worth of these books to readers and will help provide a foundation on which to build a defense of each book. (VOYA)

Must Read! (Today's Books)

The value of a collection like this is quite high―mainly for those wishing to decide whether they will have their own child or student read a particular work...Karolides has an excellent resource to offer, and from the introduction to the list of contributors at the end of the book, some major issues of our day are gently opened up and explored. (Public Library Quarterly)

Without exception, the essays in Censored Books II are extremely well-written...It would appeal to anyone with an interest in literature or banned books. It is essential for free-speech, literature, or education collections. (Lcats)

Not just a list of banned books, this volume argues for the teaching of books that are frequently challenged by would-be censors...Recommended (The Book Report)

Nicholas J. Karolides edited this terrific collection of essays in defense of frequently censored or challenged books....The critical points made in the essays transcend the 64 individual titles and can be applied to other books challenged by school boards and other entities. The essays provide anyone concerned about freedom of speech issues with rationales to use against censorship. (American Reference Books Annual)

About this edition

• Publisher: Scarecrow Press
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 0810841479
• ISBN 13: 9780810841475
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 496