Monday, September 27, 2010

Banned Books: Roald Dahl

Despite the popularity of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, Matilda and The BFG, Roald Dahl has not escaped being found on numerous banned books lists. Two of his books have been found on banned books lists multiple times.







The Witches appears on the American Library Association list of the 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books of 1990–1999. Ranked #22 on the list due to its apparent objectionable content including witchcraft, stereotypes for women and devaluing the life of a child.











James And The Giant Peach has also found itself on numerous lists.


Josh Hanagarne summed it up nicely with this comment:
I must have read this book 50 times in elementary school, which was exactly what the banners wanted to avoid. Cited for racism, violence, mystical elements, encouraging bad behavior, revolting language (the Centipede’s song is a true masterpiece of the kind of gross wordplay that kids love).




Again these bannings leave me scratching my head. Although neither of these books are favorites of mine I see nothing warranting a book banning.



Instead of trying to ban them here is something worthwhile to do with Roald Dahl's books. Encourage children to read them. September is Roald Dahl month. The Roald Dahl Reading Dahlathon runs from September to December. By reading 3 Roald Dahl books kids ages 7-13 have the chance to win prizes.

2 comments:

  1. I love this post Kathy. I remember being in 5th grade and my teacher reading the BFG to our class. James and The Giant Peach was read to us when we were in 3rd or 4th grade. I do not understand how his books have been placed on banned lists.

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  2. Kathy, this is a wonderful post and Roald Dahl is one of my favorite childrens authors. Thank you s much for posting the link, too!

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I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~