America is often considered the land of free speech, but many books and topics are still taboo. Join a discussion about banned literature, including famous titles such as Huckleberry Finn, The Catcher in the Rye, Harry Potter series, and even some Dr. Seuss books. Focusing on excerpts we will read in class, we’ll discuss wy some classics have been banned. Questions will include: What is worthy literature? Why are some books controversial? What do these controversies say about American society? Who should read these controversial books? Suggestion to read prior to class: any book from the ALA Most Challenged Books: Top 10 Most Challenged Books.

Students may also want to listen to the Witch Trials of JK Rowling Podcast.

Liz deBeer, MA, EdD, taught language arts at Point Pleasant Beach High School for 11 years. She has also lectured at several New Jersey colleges on topics related to language arts and education. Liz is currently writing YA novels with Project Write Now in Red Bank. www.lizdebeerwriter.com.

Sari Alburtus taught language arts at Howell Middle School for 33 years. She is a certified Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist who is currently contracted with the New Jersey Education Association.

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