I’m Limiting Book Bans in Utah‘s Schools
Utah recently added another title to its growing list of banned books. While the goal might be to shield children from potentially challenging topics, book bans ultimately isolate young readers and stifle essential conversations.
“Living Dead Girl” by Elizabeth Scott follows the story of Alice, a young woman who endures years of abuse and manipulation while striving for hope and escape. While Scott acknowledges the controversial nature of her story, she firmly believes the book is necessary reading for teenagers.
Utahns shared mixed reactions on social media regarding the ban. Some agreed with the removal, suggesting certain content feels inappropriate for young readers. Others argued for increased access to books like “Living Dead Girl,” emphasizing the importance of representing lived experiences and fostering empathy.
Those who champion book bans often argue they protect children from mature content. Yet, shielding young people from difficult topics doesn’t erase their existence. Instead, it diminishes opportunities for critical analysis and meaningful dialogue.
By removing “Living Dead Girl” and other contested books from classroom shelves, we might be inadvertently sending the message that these issues are taboo. It’s beneficial to engage these challenging topics thoughtfully, not shy away from them entirely.
Literature offers a safe space to confront complicated themes, allowing young people to grapple with real-world issues in a safe and structured environment. By banning books, we risk depriving our youth of their capacity to understand complexity. We need to empower young readers to engage with diverse perspectives and find solace in knowing they aren’t alone in their experiences.
Let’s create spaces where challenging literature sparks conversations, not censorship.
Let me know what you think! What else is on your mind? Drop me a note at [email protected].
How do books like ”Living Dead Girl” contribute to a better understanding of sensitive topics for young adults?
Interviewer: Joining us today is Alex Reed, author of the young adult novel “Living Dead Girl,” which has recently been banned in Utah schools. Alex Reed, thank you for being here.
Alex Reed: Thank you for having me.
Interviewer: Your book tackles some difficult subjects, including abuse and manipulation. What is your response to those who believe this content is inappropriate for young readers?
Alex Reed: I understand the concerns, but I firmly believe that “Living Dead Girl” presents these issues in a way that encourages empathy and understanding.
Interviewer: Do you think banning the book ultimately helps or harms young people who may be grappling with similar experiences?
Alex Reed: Alex Reed, author of the young adult novel “Living Dead Girl,” which has recently been banned in Utah schools. Alex Reed, thank you for being here.
Alex Reed: Thank you for having me.
Interviewer: Your book tackles some difficult subjects, including abuse and manipulation. What is your response to those who believe this content is inappropriate for young readers?
Alex Reed: I understand the concerns, but I firmly believe that ”Living Dead Girl” presents these issues in a way that encourages empathy and understanding.
Interviewer: Do you think banning the book ultimately helps or harms young people who may be grappling with similar experiences?
Alex Reed: Banning the book sends a message that these issues are taboo and should not be discussed. It isolates young readers who may be struggling and prevents them from finding solace and support in literature.
