Two Key Takeaways

 Two things that I have recognized over our semester looking at banned books are two reasons why these books are being banned. Looking at each book and seeing the common factors has helped me to understand why people are so afraid of their children being exposed to the content of these books.


One thing I've learned is that each instance of banning comes from a surface level interpretation of each book's content. The surface level observations present in the story are what these parents are afraid of, and that's what they are afraid of exposing these kids to. This is almost comical to me, because they are exposing the fact that they haven't read the book, don't really know what its about, and don't really care about what the book's purpose is. They are so focused on how the visual and setting based elements will effect their child that they don't even stop to think about what the book is attempting to portray. They only care about the set pieces, because they are too afraid to look any further. They are so blinded by their fear, that they won't even stop to realize the absurdity of them taking a stance on something they truly know nothing about. 


Another thing I have taken away is that people are so afraid of those who are different from them. To an extent I know it is a big part of human nature, but seeing how it warps and haunts the minds of so many people makes me incredibly sad. So much thought is not processed, because learned behavior keeps people from seeing things beyond their perspective. The saddest part about this all is that it will not change for the majority of people. The "don't say gay" bill was passed in Florida yesterday. It is heartbreaking to know their are any people who think like this, but soul crushing to know that they are the majority,

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