by Alan Haskvitz

The power of the written word has caused a great many legal cases challenging the First Amendment.  Discussing these cases and the books involved is an excellent opportunity for students to learn about the legal process and to see different viewpoints.

This topic shows how society’s values change over time and help students develop an appreciation for standing up for one's rights.  As always, preview these resources with the child and parents in mind.  And you must explain to students that a banned book and a challenged book are not the same. As always, follow the directions of your administration.

Banned book week is September 26−October 3, 2009.

American Library Association Banned Books Week Page
Includes a list of frequently banned books, plus ideas and resources and a calendar of events

Banned Book and Censorship Resources
For older students

Banned Books and Censorship
This link page for older students has some dead links, but also some good ones.

Banned Books – Censorship
Classic books that have been banned

Banned Books Online
“Books Suppressed by Legal Authorities” offers older students the chance to see the differences in various countries as well as with the past.

Banned Books Quest

Banning Books from the Classroom:  How to Handle Cries for Censorship
Includes ideas and links

A Case for Reading – Examining Challenged and Banned Books

Disturbing the Universe:  The Power of the Individual
Web quest for older students 

Freedom to Read
History of book banning

KidSPEAK! Fight for Harry Potter

Lesson Plan:  Researching Banned Books

Recent Incidents of Censorship
Includes banned books and authors

When Books Burn
Lessons and links