1. Literary
Criticism

2. Children’s books that explore
sexuality, violence, moral
problems, racism, and religious
beliefs are more likely to be
thought objectionable by
individuals and groups who
believe that children should not
be exposed to such ideas.

3. Arbuthnot Lectures
recipient Dorothy
Butler (1990) warns:
. . . denote an arrogance
which may be excused
as ignorance, but must
not be tolerated . . .

5. Some Guidelines in
Selecting Realistic
Fiction for Children

7. Dianne McAfee Hopkins (1993) provides useful
recommendations for librarians who face challenges
to literature.
 Examine your district’s materials selection policy
carefully.
 Ensure that principals and teachers are aware that
the policy is intended for all who challenge the
appropriateness of materials.
 Take every challenge seriously.
 Follow the reconsideration section of the policy
fully.
 Seek support when an oral or written challenge
occurs.
 Communicate at all levels to ensure that
challenges are handled in an effective and
objective manner.
 Recognize that you can be the key person in
shaping the outcome of challenges to library
materials.

8. Author Richard Peck (1992) provides
an excellent observation for all of those
who are developing defenses for
books.
“ Only the
nonreader fears
books”

11. KRISHNA B. PONCE