Banning books does no good – Kentucky Kernel

Books deemed controversial or offensive are banned and challenged in schools nationwide; about 1,600 book titles have been banned in the United States in the past year, according to CNN News.

Much of the knowledge our society receives comes from reading books, and the significance of some books now fades before us. We’ve been taught that books are extremely important to everyone, and that concept is suddenly being challenged.

If we ban books from schools, we limit young minds and their ability to think critically and understand history. The books include pieces of our history and our future; they allow us to have a new look at other peoples and other eras.

Most of the time, the book in question is full of factual and important information for the world around us, but the uncomfortable subjects are not considered idyllic. Books that spark discussion about the uncomfortable topics of our world are the most important because they create the most unforgettable and teachable moments.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” is a highly regarded novel that has been around since the 60s, it is one of many books in question due to its attention to racial injustice and human nature.

The classic was written during the time of the civil rights movement when equality was a major struggle. The novel contains what some would consider offensive language and imagery, but it’s one of the first books we see that truly explains the intrusive realities of life at the time.

For example, the book tackles issues of racism, and we see a man of color falsely accused of rape winning his case. It was rare at the time for a person of color to be found not guilty at trial. The whole community is watching the truth come out and people everywhere are learning something about themselves and how they treat others.

We should always look at books for what they are: a chance to learn from past mistakes.

Books such as “To Kill a Mockingbird” deal with issues of racism and human nature, making them hard reading for some. Although overwhelming, a lasting impression is left on the reader.
This famous book and others like it are helping society in the fight for change, which is reason enough to end the bans.

Schools and libraries across the country are questioning various books and expanding their horizons as they choose what is considered unsuitable for the classroom.

The issues raised in “To Kill a Mockingbird” and others like it force you to step back and look at the bigger picture. What is the purpose of this book and what does it mean to its readers?

No matter what schools and surrounding libraries decide, every member of society has a choice to pick up a book. There will always be disagreements about certain books, but the knowledge one gains from reading these types of books will not differ.

Everyone should have a fair chance to gain new knowledge about the world around them. This is how we grow, learn, succeed and prosper. The books we ban will always remain a clear part of the story, a part that will not be forgotten.

In each book is an important story to hear. A book can completely change your outlook on life, and the decision to ban or challenge a book shouldn’t be taken lightly.