“It is not enough to simply teach children to read; we have to give them something worth reading.” (Paterson). When a book is “challenged”, a single person--or an entire group--wishes for that particular piece of literature to be banned from the curriculum or the library as a whole. These drastic measures may be taken because of discussions about racism, violence, sex, witchcraft, controversial politics, incest, or rape that are not considered appropriate for schools ("Banned & Challenged Books"). Consequently, after a book successfully becomes banned, the access to that book becomes restricted in the library collection and course of study of a particular school. This was the case in Cromwell, Connecticut, where a pair of residents attempted to have the …show more content…
Furthermore, the right of individuals to express their unique opinions are also guaranteed and protected by Freedom of Speech in the U.S. Constitution (Staff, LII). However, the attempt to ban, or even challenge, a book completely neglects the principles established in the foundation of the United States Government; the act of banning can even be considered being cowardly, attempting to silence arguments the book arouses instead of discussing them. Presumably, Bridge to Terabithia arouses arguments because of its application of religious controversy, disrespect, and a distressing death of a child. Despite Paterson’s previous background as a missionary, critics still dispute an alleged promotion of “secular humanism”, a concept that humanity can thrive without belief in God (“CT Residents”). In this case, praying to Spirits, the bullying of “some dumb cow” Janice Avery, and the sudden drowning of Leslie Burke can all be considered offensive topics to modern-day society (Paterson 37). Nonetheless, Katherine Paterson still justifies her methods of literature through the emotional intelligence her readers acquire after reading this book, as evident in some of her other pieces of writing