Russell Banks Message Board
phil hannuksela posts on 3/5/2010 11:59:21 PM
All you're saying when you want to ban a book of powerful connection to the actual lives so many kids live, in particular boys who these days are told to be so passive, is that you want to sound good for your
self-satisfied congregation. I was a model boy, only too respectable, who denied the longing for a father who might help gain respect for his own space when a poorly mothered mother insisted on being the center of all value. I denied that all my life and am now sixty-four. Wish I could have broken out in whatever way possible, even at great risk. You just don't have to challenge yourself, even if basic modesty demands it. Yes, of course,be "positive" and have a "nice day."
Wes posts on 12/18/2007 12:24:09 PM
To deny this book from any library is a shame... regardless if you lash out on it in all caps or not. Banks writes a book that is fitting of the nihilistic culture in America, and is much a part of literature as is Catcher in the Rye (which as we recall was banned for its vulgarity). I am currently teaching this book to Sophomores in English and I believe their ability to connect with Bone is more beneficial then candy coating their education with books devoid of the reality presented in this novel. Shame on those who force anything but reality on children... you are much like the blind men chained in Plato's cave.
DEE posts on 3/9/2005 12:50:35 PM
THIS BOOK SHOULD NOT ENTER OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS. SHAME ON THEM IF THEY ALLOW IT IN THE LIBRARY. OURS HAS BEEN TAKEN OUT BECAUSE OF THE EXPLICIT SEX, DRUGS AND VULGAR LANGUAGE.
Note: the views expressed here are only those of the posters.
