Lauren Jefferson - It doesn't surprise me that New Kid is being banned in certain places because a lot of people refuse to acknowledge the ways in which people of color are often at a disadvantage in this country. Especially with all the talk about critical race theory, I can see how this book would be banned in schools because people think that the discussion about race "makes white kids feel bad".
Gabriela R- Unfortunately I'm not surprised that New Kid has been embroiled in a book banning controversy because race is a subject that a lot of adults do not want to discuss, including teachers. The struggles that Jordan and Drew went through as CHILDREN of color, happen everyday around the country. This book would only be a controversy to individuals that do not want to accept that racism and inequality is very much a problem in the education system. It does not surprise me because this has been happening for YEARS. The author of this book, a father, went through very similar situations as the characters in the book, years ago. Things have hardly changed which is why this book is embroiled in a book banning controversy.
No, I am not surprised. Unfortunately, this book reflects some challenging issues in our community and schools. It's easier to avoid a complex topic than discuss it, especially explaining certain situations to students. With that being said, I think this graphic novel was well written for the audience. And having students read this book allows for conversations to be had at a younger age, contributing to a more open-minded society.
Not at all. It's a little frustrating to hear, thought. But the book is centered around a topic that often times schools like to avoid. Especially, since it portrays the negative experiences that black students go through instead of a more "everything’s good and happy and perfect" kind of idea. Sure, it doesn't really get into the gritty details, but it's still critical. Also these kinds of decisions are usually pushed by the exact people who need this book - white grown-ups in education. Also, probably, the parents of white students who don’t want their children to “feel bad” about their race. But it happens all the time, so, again, it’s not surprising. Midhat Ansar
I'm not surprised that New Kid has been mixed into the book banning controversy. The book focuses on the struggles that children of color face in their daily school life and the topic and content is realistic. People are uncomfortable talking about the issues riddled in not only our school systems, but every system in our country. When people are uncomfortable, they simply don't want to talk about, which is why so many books with important commentary real issues with real world consequences are banned from schools. Rather than try to make people feel comfortable, we should be trying to open up conversations and push past our boundaries.
Jesslyn - It doesn't surprise me because I went to a school that would have totally banned it. Often it seems like public school teachers/admin. are completely in denial when it comes to any flaws the school may have. Too many teachers are unwilling to look at what they could be doing better, or simply don't care. It's very rare to have a teacher who truly cares about each student and works towards becoming a better teacher for the kids. Especially because this book is about the poor treatment of nonwhite students, I am not surprised schools would want to sweep narratives like this under the rug.
I'm not surprised that New Kid was placed on a list of banned books in schools. Nothing about the book was really controversial but the censorship of books in public schools, especially at the primary and middle school level, is really extreme in order to cater to a wide variety of parents. I think certain school boards and parent associations shelter their students/kids too much and get scared when confronted with the possibility of thinking critically about the real world. It's unfortunate but I've seen it happen a lot.
I am not surprised that New Kid is on the banned books list. There are a lot of ignorant people in America. If the book does not present them or their experience they simply do not care about anyone else. The people who banned the book clearly lack sympathy. New Kid should not be on the banned books list. It is a common experience for kids of color in America and this book spreads awareness to the concern. The book does not have any content worthy of being banned. It is an appropriate book and shows an important message. -Natalie Agee
It doesn't surprise me that New Kid would be placed in a banned books list. It gives a brutally honest look into schools thats packaged in a kid-friendly way. The book showed teachers being racist and classist with no resolution to their character. One could claim that this would lead younger students into a distrust of their teachers. The book was also very upfront with topics like code-switching, socioeconomic status, and parental differences, which can be accepted in the right context. But I think that because this is a graphic novel, it is seen as something that should be a light and fun read for kids when in reality it has a lot more depth.
I was not surprised that New Kid was on the banned book list, even though it was an incredibly lighthearted book that still brought real life issues to surface. The fact that it is banned in some states is incredibly disappointing and proves that many teachers and school systems don't want to acknowledge flaws and work towards a better system. Books like this should not be banned and teachers should be challenged to include them in their curriculum as they bring to light very important real-life issues that children and adults need to be educated on in order to create change and build a better community in schools.
In all honesty I’m not surprised this book is banned in some schools. It is geared toward children and highlights real world issues such a racism and classism in school systems. Some places would rather ignore the issue than put in the work to make change. They also hold some views that it is “inappropriate” for children. But by education children on these we allow them to develop more inclusive ideals and it provides more representation for all types of students. I don’t think books like these should be banned because they are so influential in highlighting issues and creating change. They should not be ignored by banning them.
It does surprise me that this book is banned in some places. When reading this book, I thought it was a rather light-hearted way to start to break down microaggressions that take place in school settings. It also gave an engaging perspective of the black schoolkid experience in America. The author even stated that the book is based largely on his life growing up. I cannot see how you can ban this book without admitting that you are uncomfortable with racism in America. For a country that preaches the right to free speech, it seems like you would be fighting the wrong fight by banning the book for whatever reason.
Abigail Jegels: It doesn't surprise me that this book would be banned in schools in certain towns, but of course I don't agree with this idea. A lot of schools and educators might find this book offensive and don't want to show this to children. They choose to be ignorant and ignore the microaggressions many students of color face at a school that is majority white. I feel that instead of hiding these experiences, they should educate the children on being mindful of how they speak to others and be thoughtful.
I'm surprised the book was controversial, as the book's content is g-rated children's/young teen material. The book provides a perspective, and therefore should be respected. Book controversies in general are counter to democratic values, this is no exception. The topic of controversy, that New Kid promotes critical race theory, is irrelevant given that the book was not being used to teach critical race theory. As someone in class said, New Kid is not theoretical.
I was both surprised and not surprised. If someone asked me if it was a banned book, I would say no. However, if someone told me the book was banned, it would not be a shock. Do I believe it should be banned? Absolutely not. The graphic novel in no way shape or form is dangerous or inappropriate for the reader. It was meant to be read by children! The only reason why it would be banned is because it makes some white people feel bad or uncomfortable. The controversy over critical race theory probably had come partly to do with the ban, since the novel was published in 2019.
It does not surprise me that New Kid was a banned book because I have witnessed firsthand how Dr. Suess's books got banned in Loudon County. I can see the reasoning behind the book being banned, as concerned parents want what's best for their children. However, this might be a misguided attempt, as they are potentially shortchanging both themselves and their offspring. It is understandable to shield one's offspring from harmful media, however, I think there are more reasons behind the book being banned than just protecting children from harmful media. One potential alternative reason can be explained with issues derived from Critical Race Theory. Mainly, I think that the clash between races and classes rubbed adult readers the wrong way, therefore, leading to a notion that the book should be banned. Either way, this form of censorship is becoming more and more common to the point that I am not even surprised anymore by what gets censored what doesn't. ~Matt Embretsen
It greatly surprised me that New Kid was a banned book. It seemed to me to be such an unoffensive, ordinary kids book. Then again, the ignorance of American adults never ceases to amaze me. The book was so light hearted I just assumed there was absolutely no way that there would be people out there sensitive enough to be offended by this book, let alone try to get it banned.
It was less surprising & more disheartening to learn about new kid being a banned book & receiving unjust criticism. It is far from being taboo in any sense but unfortunately racism persists in our society and white people feel personally attacked when their actions are highlighted.
Lydia Haynes- Yes and no. On one hand the book does highlight topics that can be seen as uncomfortable and harmful to people that like to discredit the hardships of people of color. Those same people likely see it as a shot at them and their kids when in reality it is just a way to make those struggling with the same or similar issues that are presented in the book. However, I don't know how one could be so closed minded to want to take a book off the shelf that is one of the few nonviolent representations of kids of color. Also, I didn't expect anyone to look at the cover of New Kid and think 'Yeah, we should definitely review this because it probably has some harmful material'.
Jones Boyer - It doesn't surprise me that New Kid has been embroiled in book banning controversy, because the sad truth is that books that should be neutral or productive material are often banned by people who feel threatened by them. New Kid doesn't take very strong stances on particular issues as its somewhat of an autobiography that just portrays a certain persons experiences, so it is somewhat hard to understand how people could take issue with the content.
Jaliyah Harris - Unfortunately, it doesn't surprise me that New Kid is in a book banning controversy. I'm not surprised because some people may view this book as "too much" or "too radical" because it touches on racial issues. I don't agree that it should be banned and I think that kids, especially those who identify with Jordan, should be able to read this book.
Lauren Jefferson - It doesn't surprise me that New Kid is being banned in certain places because a lot of people refuse to acknowledge the ways in which people of color are often at a disadvantage in this country. Especially with all the talk about critical race theory, I can see how this book would be banned in schools because people think that the discussion about race "makes white kids feel bad".
ReplyDeleteGabriela R- Unfortunately I'm not surprised that New Kid has been embroiled in a book banning controversy because race is a subject that a lot of adults do not want to discuss, including teachers. The struggles that Jordan and Drew went through as CHILDREN of color, happen everyday around the country. This book would only be a controversy to individuals that do not want to accept that racism and inequality is very much a problem in the education system. It does not surprise me because this has been happening for YEARS. The author of this book, a father, went through very similar situations as the characters in the book, years ago. Things have hardly changed which is why this book is embroiled in a book banning controversy.
ReplyDeleteNo, I am not surprised. Unfortunately, this book reflects some challenging issues in our community and schools. It's easier to avoid a complex topic than discuss it, especially explaining certain situations to students. With that being said, I think this graphic novel was well written for the audience. And having students read this book allows for conversations to be had at a younger age, contributing to a more open-minded society.
ReplyDeleteNot at all. It's a little frustrating to hear, thought. But the book is centered around a topic that often times schools like to avoid. Especially, since it portrays the negative experiences that black students go through instead of a more "everything’s good and happy and perfect" kind of idea. Sure, it doesn't really get into the gritty details, but it's still critical. Also these kinds of decisions are usually pushed by the exact people who need this book - white grown-ups in education. Also, probably, the parents of white students who don’t want their children to “feel bad” about their race. But it happens all the time, so, again, it’s not surprising. Midhat Ansar
ReplyDeleteI'm not surprised that New Kid has been mixed into the book banning controversy. The book focuses on the struggles that children of color face in their daily school life and the topic and content is realistic. People are uncomfortable talking about the issues riddled in not only our school systems, but every system in our country. When people are uncomfortable, they simply don't want to talk about, which is why so many books with important commentary real issues with real world consequences are banned from schools. Rather than try to make people feel comfortable, we should be trying to open up conversations and push past our boundaries.
ReplyDeleteJesslyn -
ReplyDeleteIt doesn't surprise me because I went to a school that would have totally banned it. Often it seems like public school teachers/admin. are completely in denial when it comes to any flaws the school may have. Too many teachers are unwilling to look at what they could be doing better, or simply don't care. It's very rare to have a teacher who truly cares about each student and works towards becoming a better teacher for the kids. Especially because this book is about the poor treatment of nonwhite students, I am not surprised schools would want to sweep narratives like this under the rug.
Isra Smith-
ReplyDeleteI'm not surprised that New Kid was placed on a list of banned books in schools. Nothing about the book was really controversial but the censorship of books in public schools, especially at the primary and middle school level, is really extreme in order to cater to a wide variety of parents. I think certain school boards and parent associations shelter their students/kids too much and get scared when confronted with the possibility of thinking critically about the real world. It's unfortunate but I've seen it happen a lot.
I am not surprised that New Kid is on the banned books list. There are a lot of ignorant people in America. If the book does not present them or their experience they simply do not care about anyone else. The people who banned the book clearly lack sympathy. New Kid should not be on the banned books list. It is a common experience for kids of color in America and this book spreads awareness to the concern. The book does not have any content worthy of being banned. It is an appropriate book and shows an important message. -Natalie Agee
ReplyDeleteIt doesn't surprise me that New Kid would be placed in a banned books list. It gives a brutally honest look into schools thats packaged in a kid-friendly way. The book showed teachers being racist and classist with no resolution to their character. One could claim that this would lead younger students into a distrust of their teachers. The book was also very upfront with topics like code-switching, socioeconomic status, and parental differences, which can be accepted in the right context. But I think that because this is a graphic novel, it is seen as something that should be a light and fun read for kids when in reality it has a lot more depth.
ReplyDeleteI was not surprised that New Kid was on the banned book list, even though it was an incredibly lighthearted book that still brought real life issues to surface. The fact that it is banned in some states is incredibly disappointing and proves that many teachers and school systems don't want to acknowledge flaws and work towards a better system. Books like this should not be banned and teachers should be challenged to include them in their curriculum as they bring to light very important real-life issues that children and adults need to be educated on in order to create change and build a better community in schools.
ReplyDeleteIn all honesty I’m not surprised this book is banned in some schools. It is geared toward children and highlights real world issues such a racism and classism in school systems. Some places would rather ignore the issue than put in the work to make change. They also hold some views that it is “inappropriate” for children. But by education children on these we allow them to develop more inclusive ideals and it provides more representation for all types of students. I don’t think books like these should be banned because they are so influential in highlighting issues and creating change. They should not be ignored by banning them.
ReplyDeleteIt does surprise me that this book is banned in some places. When reading this book, I thought it was a rather light-hearted way to start to break down microaggressions that take place in school settings. It also gave an engaging perspective of the black schoolkid experience in America. The author even stated that the book is based largely on his life growing up. I cannot see how you can ban this book without admitting that you are uncomfortable with racism in America. For a country that preaches the right to free speech, it seems like you would be fighting the wrong fight by banning the book for whatever reason.
ReplyDeleteAbigail Jegels: It doesn't surprise me that this book would be banned in schools in certain towns, but of course I don't agree with this idea. A lot of schools and educators might find this book offensive and don't want to show this to children. They choose to be ignorant and ignore the microaggressions many students of color face at a school that is majority white. I feel that instead of hiding these experiences, they should educate the children on being mindful of how they speak to others and be thoughtful.
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised the book was controversial, as the book's content is g-rated children's/young teen material. The book provides a perspective, and therefore should be respected. Book controversies in general are counter to democratic values, this is no exception. The topic of controversy, that New Kid promotes critical race theory, is irrelevant given that the book was not being used to teach critical race theory. As someone in class said, New Kid is not theoretical.
ReplyDeletethis was olivia
DeleteAngela Mitchel
ReplyDeleteI was both surprised and not surprised. If someone asked me if it was a banned book, I would say no. However, if someone told me the book was banned, it would not be a shock. Do I believe it should be banned? Absolutely not. The graphic novel in no way shape or form is dangerous or inappropriate for the reader. It was meant to be read by children! The only reason why it would be banned is because it makes some white people feel bad or uncomfortable. The controversy over critical race theory probably had come partly to do with the ban, since the novel was published in 2019.
It does not surprise me that New Kid was a banned book because I have witnessed firsthand how Dr. Suess's books got banned in Loudon County. I can see the reasoning behind the book being banned, as concerned parents want what's best for their children. However, this might be a misguided attempt, as they are potentially shortchanging both themselves and their offspring. It is understandable to shield one's offspring from harmful media, however, I think there are more reasons behind the book being banned than just protecting children from harmful media. One potential alternative reason can be explained with issues derived from Critical Race Theory. Mainly, I think that the clash between races and classes rubbed adult readers the wrong way, therefore, leading to a notion that the book should be banned. Either way, this form of censorship is becoming more and more common to the point that I am not even surprised anymore by what gets censored what doesn't.
ReplyDelete~Matt Embretsen
It greatly surprised me that New Kid was a banned book. It seemed to me to be such an unoffensive, ordinary kids book. Then again, the ignorance of American adults never ceases to amaze me. The book was so light hearted I just assumed there was absolutely no way that there would be people out there sensitive enough to be offended by this book, let alone try to get it banned.
ReplyDeleteIt was less surprising & more disheartening to learn about new kid being a banned book & receiving unjust criticism. It is far from being taboo in any sense but unfortunately racism persists in our society and white people feel personally attacked when their actions are highlighted.
ReplyDeleteLydia Haynes-
ReplyDeleteYes and no. On one hand the book does highlight topics that can be seen as uncomfortable and harmful to people that like to discredit the hardships of people of color. Those same people likely see it as a shot at them and their kids when in reality it is just a way to make those struggling with the same or similar issues that are presented in the book. However, I don't know how one could be so closed minded to want to take a book off the shelf that is one of the few nonviolent representations of kids of color. Also, I didn't expect anyone to look at the cover of New Kid and think 'Yeah, we should definitely review this because it probably has some harmful material'.
Jones Boyer - It doesn't surprise me that New Kid has been embroiled in book banning controversy, because the sad truth is that books that should be neutral or productive material are often banned by people who feel threatened by them. New Kid doesn't take very strong stances on particular issues as its somewhat of an autobiography that just portrays a certain persons experiences, so it is somewhat hard to understand how people could take issue with the content.
ReplyDeleteJaliyah Harris - Unfortunately, it doesn't surprise me that New Kid is in a book banning controversy. I'm not surprised because some people may view this book as "too much" or "too radical" because it touches on racial issues. I don't agree that it should be banned and I think that kids, especially those who identify with Jordan, should be able to read this book.
ReplyDelete