Book details
The Day They Came to Arrest the Book (Laurel-Leaf Books)
Description
Who would have believed that The Adventure ofHuckleberry Finn could cause the worst crisis in thehistory of George Mason High School? Certainly notBarney Roth, editor of the school paper. But whena small but vocal group of students and parentsdecide that the book is racist, sexist, andimmoral--and should be removed from reading lists and theschool library--Barney takes matters into his ownhands.When the Huck Finn issuecomes up for a hearing, Barney decides to print hisstory about previous censorship efforts at school.He's sure that investigative reporting andpublicity can help the cause. But is he too late to turnthe tide of censorship?From the Paperback edition.
Age
12-17
Text complexity
proficient
Length
176 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Relevance: 'The Day They Came to Arrest the Book' explores themes of censorship, freedom of speech, and the importance of protecting intellectual freedom. These topics remain highly relevant in contemporary society, making the book a valuable read for those interested in current social and political issues.
- Educational Insight: The book provides insight into the workings of the American educational system and the challenges it faces regarding the content of what is taught. It encourages readers to think critically about the role of education in shaping young minds and the implications of restricting access to information.
- Character Development: Nat Hentoff's characters are well-developed and represent a range of perspectives on the issue of book banning. Readers can engage with the diverse viewpoints and motivations of each character, leading to a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in debates over censorship.
- Engaging Plot: The narrative is compelling and thought-provoking, with a plot that unfolds in a way that keeps readers invested in the outcome. The story's tension and moral dilemmas make it a page-turner, ensuring that readers are not only educated on the issues but also entertained throughout.