Art Resources
Ms. Burgher's Class
Students
Literature is often reflective of the time in which it is written. By looking at what books are being challenged, we can think critically about the changing social issues throughout history.
Pick from select books for examples to demonstrate political and social issue. These resources list the book and the reasons given for the challenge against them.
ALA Frequently Challenged Books by Year
Another List of Banned Book with Reasons
Banned Books A-Z
Once you've chosen a book, examine what caused the book to be banned. Does that coincide with any historical change or social issues relevant to that time period?
Project:
Create a information Hub using https://www.smore.com/
1. Why was the book banned
2. Give information on how often the book was challenged or banned.
3. Talk about your stance on if you agree or disagree
Here a few examples:
Book: And Tango Makes Three, by Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson
Year: 2010
Reasons: homosexuality, religious viewpoint, and unsuited to age group
Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Year: 1977
Reasons: Considered "dangerous" because of profanity and undermining of race relations.
Book: Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh.
Year: 1983
Reason: Considered "dangerous" because it "teaches children to lie, spy, back-talk and curse."
Book: Animal Farm by George Orwell.
Year: 1963, 1968, etc.
Reason: Challenged for the novel's use of the phrase "masses will revolt" and later because "Orwell was a communist."
Research Databases
SIRS Researcher EasyBib NCWiseOwl