Analysis

Most books that mention sex, being LGBTQ+, or problematic family issues are most likely the ones banned. The people who favor not banning All Boys Aren't Blue will say that it's "too graphic" or "not suitable for teenagers." But the supporters say that it is positive for students who might possibly feel left out or unsure about who they are. Some schools try to find a middle ground, like having the book but limiting the upper-level students from borrowing it or needing parental approval. Each school does it differently. But the argument is always the same. Some folks believe it's too much, and others believe it's essential.

Interpretation

These issues arose because the book addresses things that some individuals feel uncomfortable about discussing, such as being queer, sex, and identity. Some adults genuinely want to shield children, but others are simply uncomfortable and don't want certain subjects in schools whatsoever. Here, individuals aren't even reading the whole book. They merely read quotes online and become outraged. Yet banning a book like this raises gigantic issues of free speech and what students should be allowed to read. Teens are already dealing with real-life problems, so having books that address them realistically can actually be beneficial, not detrimental.

Evaluation

I think the people who want to keep the book are right. All Boys Aren't Blue is real and makes it so that people who aren't always heard can become heard. Yes, there are mature passages, but students can read and discuss things that are important. Banning the book does nothing. It only hides things. A better way is to give the students access and allow adults to guide the discussion when it needs to be done. That way, no one is left behind, and the students still get an opportunity to learn.

Analysis

Books like this one that deal with mental health, trauma, or sex are often banned. Those who call for them to be taken out always insist they don't wish children to be reading about sex, drugs, and LGBTQ+ materials. But those who are standing up for the book insist those are real parts of being an adolescent and should not be repressed. A few schools try to do an in-between approach, like offering the book on a volunteer basis or obtaining parental permission. Others also claim the book would "encourage bad behavior" or "cause suicide," which indicates they may not know the point of the story. Various schools handle it differently, though the same points always arise.

Interpretation

These were concerns because the book addresses difficult issues some adults do not want to discuss. They may believe that prohibiting the book protects children, but they also protect them from learning how to handle actual issues. Certain groups advocate for banning books without necessarily reading them or knowing what they truly are about. It feels most times like more about controlling what students read than trying to assist them in growing. The First Amendment tells us that individuals are allowed to read and be exposed to ideas, even ideas that individuals do not like. Pulling books off library shelves is one way of taking away those rights for students.

Evaluation

I think the individuals on the side of the book are right. The Perks of Being a Wallflower addresses real things that teens go through. Pulling it won't keep students safe. It just takes away something that could actually help them understand themselves or others. If adults are really worried, they can talk with students about the book, not just ban it. Teens are smart enough to handle serious topics, especially if the story is honest and meaningful.