Books have been at the center of countless controversies over the centuries. (Yes, really.)
Some books are so controversial that they are still prohibited on the shelves of libraries today!
If you like a little drama in your life, check out these "bad boys".
jpsblog.org
To see more books on the banned list, click here.
The Giver
Lois Lowry
Jonas is apprehensive about the ceremony of The Twelves next month. This will be the last time he is recognized as a child in his community but what's more is that this would be the ceremony that would decide his whole future. The Ceremony of the Twelves is where every boy and girl receive an assignment as a an employee of the community. Jonas is nervous because he just doesn't have a clue as to what job the elders will choose for him. What if he is unhappy in his new role? Will he ever get to have leisure time with this friends again? When the elders choose Jonas as the next Receiver of Memory, a very rare and respected role in the community, Jonas finds out that the only society he has ever known is devoid of real human experience. This thought-provoking modern fantasy book is definitely a must-read. Having been on the top 100 banned list since it was published in 1993, this book tells a story about what might happen if our society were to take a way the individuals right to choose.
Suggested Grade Level: 5-8
Reading Level: 6.0
Reviewed by Lorisa Harvey
Killing Mr. Griffin
by Lois Duncan
Mr. Griffin is the strictest teacher at Del Norte High. He assigns tons of homework and expects perfection which of course does not make him a favorite teacher of any student. Four students are convinced a simple prank will scare Mr. Griffin into being more lenient. While they only meant to scare him, the students are much more involved than they imagined.
Interest level: Young adult
Reading level: Lexile 720
Reviewed by Lesley Hermann
by J.K. Rowling
Interest Level: Grades 4-8
Reading Level: 5.3
Who knew J.K. Rowling would pen one of the most beloved children's books of the modern era when she published the story of young Harry, an orphan boy who is unaware of his wizard heritage? Having lived with his dreadful and downright abusive aunt and uncle since his parents' death when he was an infant, Harry is surprised to find that he's been accepted to Hogwarts School of Wizardry and Witchcraft, and he embarks on an adventure that will change his life. Along the way, he befriends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, two classmates, and he is watched over by the affable giant Hagrid, as he navigates life in a world where magic is a game-changer. Harry desperately hopes to find out more about his parents and understand his past, but there are evil forces at play, and someone who does not want him to continue on his journey. Even though this book will have a lot of appeal for fans of fantasy, readers who are looking for a character they can believe in and root for will find these qualities in Harry, and there are lessons in this story for people of all ages.
Reviewed by Robin Hosemann