Banned Books Week 2024
Freed Between the Lines
Banned Books Week is September 22 - 28 this year. Although the issue of banning books has peppered our news and social media feeds in recent months, book banning is nothing new. In fact, it has been around for centuries. The first ban in the United States is believed to have taken place in 1637 in Massachusetts when Thomas Merton published his New English Canaan. Even the Bible and works of Shakespeare have been banned over the past two thousand years.
We at JOYcabulary have no interest in entering the current political fray around bans, burnings, or other censorship activities. We truly believe the caregiver has the right to guide their child’s reading diet. But, what if your child or student raises the issue of book bans? How do you explain it in a developmentally-appropriate manner?
Ironically enough, there is a picture book to assist you in your explanation:
In his book, Haldar explores what might happen when ideas are erased instead of expressed. It is silly and irreverent. Julia Patton’s vibrant illustrations maintain its child-friendly stance. Just know, the author is clearly opposed to book bans.
As you read, you may wish to explore the following words:
banned
restricted
deleted
offended
complain
caution
access
Again… YOU, as the adult in your child’s life, are the ultimate decision-maker regarding the books you choose to share with your child.
For more information, visit bannedbooksweek.org.
