Why Is Where the Red Fern Grows Banned?
Where the Red Fern Grows is a beloved children’s novel written by Wilson Rawls and first published in 1961. Despite its popularity and positive reception, the book has faced numerous challenges and bans in schools and libraries across the United States. The reasons behind the banning of this classic piece of literature vary, but they often revolve around its content and themes. Let’s explore the reasons why Where the Red Fern Grows has been banned, as well as some common questions and answers related to its banning.
1. Is Where the Red Fern Grows too violent?
One of the primary reasons why the book has been banned is due to its depiction of violence, particularly in the scenes involving the hunting and killing of animals. Some argue that these scenes may be too graphic and disturbing for young readers.
2. Does Where the Red Fern Grows contain offensive language?
Another reason for the book’s banning is the use of offensive language. Some readers and parents find the language inappropriate for children, as it includes mild profanity.
3. Is Where the Red Fern Grows considered religiously offensive?
In some cases, the book has been challenged for its portrayal of religious beliefs and practices. Some readers argue that it promotes a specific religious worldview, which may clash with their own beliefs.
4. Does Where the Red Fern Grows have racial or cultural insensitivity?
Although not a common reason for the book’s banning, some readers have criticized its portrayal of Native American characters, suggesting that it perpetuates stereotypes or is culturally insensitive.
5. Is Where the Red Fern Grows inappropriate due to its mature themes?
The book deals with mature themes such as death, loss, and perseverance, which some argue may not be suitable for young readers. Some parents and educators prefer to shield children from these topics until they are older.
6. Does Where the Red Fern Grows promote animal cruelty?
Since the book revolves around hunting and trapping, it has been challenged for promoting animal cruelty, as some readers believe it may encourage children to engage in harmful behavior towards animals.
7. Is Where the Red Fern Grows too emotional or sad for young readers?
The novel’s emotional impact, particularly its poignant and tragic ending, has led some to question its appropriateness for young readers. Some argue that it may be too distressing for children to handle.
8. Does Where the Red Fern Grows contain inappropriate content for its target age group?
The book’s themes of death, grief, and the harsh realities of life have caused some parents and educators to question whether it is suitable for the intended middle-grade audience.
9. Is Where the Red Fern Grows banned due to its portrayal of family dynamics?
In some cases, the book has been challenged for its depiction of family relationships. Some argue that it presents an unrealistic or unhealthy view of family dynamics.
10. Does Where the Red Fern Grows contain outdated or offensive language?
As a book published in the 1960s, Where the Red Fern Grows includes some language and phrases that may be considered outdated or offensive by today’s standards. This has led to challenges in more recent years.
11. Is Where the Red Fern Grows banned due to its portrayal of poverty?
The book portrays the main character’s family as being poor, living in rural Oklahoma during the Great Depression. Some critics argue that this depiction perpetuates negative stereotypes about poverty.
12. Does Where the Red Fern Grows contain inappropriate content for school settings?
Due to the book’s challenging themes and potentially controversial content, some schools have decided to ban it to avoid potential conflicts or discomfort among students and parents.
In conclusion, Where the Red Fern Grows has faced bans and challenges due to various reasons, including its depiction of violence, offensive language, religious and cultural sensitivity concerns, mature themes, promotion of animal cruelty, emotional impact, and potentially inappropriate content for its target age group. While these challenges and bans have limited access to the book in certain settings, Where the Red Fern Grows continues to be a cherished and celebrated piece of literature for many readers.