Literary Criticism

Children’s books that explore sexuality, violence,

moral problems, racism, and religious beliefs are more likely to be thought

objectionable by individuals and groups who

believe that children should not be exposed to

such ideas.

Arbuthnot Lectures recipient Dorothy Butler (1990) warns:

. . . denote an arrogance which may be excused as ignorance, but must

not be tolerated . . .

According to Day Ann R. McClenathan (1979) suggestions that the avoidance of this controversial books was inappropriate because:

books about relevant sociological or psychological problems can give young people the opportunities to grow in their thinking processes and to extend their experiencesProblems in books can provide some children with opportunities for identification and allow other children opportunities to empathize with their peersProblems in books invite decisions, elicit opinions, and afford opportunities to take positions on issues

Some Guidelines in Selecting

Realistic Fiction for Children

McClenathan provides teachers a useful guide for selecting books that might be considered controversial.

Evaluation CriteriaLiterary Criticism: Controversial Books

1. Know what might be considered controversial.2. Determine the author’s viewpoint and weigh the

positive influences against perceived negative influences.

3. Be sure that the book meets normal literary criteria and is not chosen merely for its high interest and possibly controversial topic.

4. Know and be able to explain your purpose for using a particular book.

5. Review and be able to discuss both sides of the censorship question.

Dianne McAfee Hopkins (1993) provides useful recommendations for librarians who face challenges to literature.

Examine your district’s materials selection policy carefully.

Ensure that principals and teachers are aware that the policy is intended for all who challenge the appropriateness of materials.

Take every challenge seriously. Follow the reconsideration section of the policy

fully. Seek support when an oral or written challenge

occurs. Communicate at all levels to ensure that

challenges are handled in an effective and objective manner.

Recognize that you can be the key person in shaping the outcome of challenges to library materials.

Author Richard Peck (1992) provides an excellent observation for all of those who are developing defenses for books.

“ Only the nonreader fears

books”

High Quality Contemporary Realistic Fiction Requirements

a. Know exactly might be considered controversial.

b. Ascertain the author’s point of view and weigh the power of the positive influence against exposure to a theme that some people perceive negatively

c. Apply literary criteria to the selection of library books so that vulnerability to the arguments of would-be censors is at least partially reduced by the obvious overall quality of the book choices.

d. Know and be able to explain your purpose for using a particular book.

Prepared by:

KRISHNA B. PONCE

BEED-3A

MTh 8:30-10:00