Ban Books

Socialist Action, Vol. 5, No. 2, February 1987 · scan p. 2 · about 135 words

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The case began in June 1983 when fundamentalist Christian parents challenged the reading series of books selected by the school board. These books, published by Holt, Rinehart and Winston, are used by schools throughout the country.

The fundamentalist parents complained that if their children read the entire Holt series they "might adopt the views of a feminist, a humanist, a pacifist, an anti-Christian, a vegetarian, or an advocate of one-world gov -ernment." Judge Hull agreed.

What were these books and why did the parents object to them?

• "Cinderella:" "Because it mentions magic."

• Shakespeare's "MacBeth:" "Because it mentions witchcraft and magic."

• "The Wizard of Oz:" "Because it portrayed a witch as good and because it depicted traits such as courage, intelligence, and com -passion as personally de LIKE IT! WHAT'S IT SAY?"