Why Is Where the Wild Things Are Banned

Despite its popularity, ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ has faced bans in various schools and libraries across the U.S. This article explores the reasons behind these bans and their implications for children’s literature and freedom of expression.

Introduction

“Where the Wild Things Are,” a beloved children’s book by Maurice Sendak, has enchanted readers since its publication in 1963. The story follows Max, a young boy who journeys to an imaginary world inhabited by wild creatures. Despite its enduring popularity, the book has faced bans in various schools and libraries across the United States. This article explores the reasons behind these bans and the implications for literature and freedom of expression.

Reasons for Bans

The reasons for the banning of “Where the Wild Things Are” often stem from parental concerns and perceptions of inappropriate content. Some of the primary reasons include:

Violence: Critics argue that the book depicts themes of violence and rebellion, particularly as Max creates chaos and asserts his authority over the Wild Things.
Emotional Distress: The portrayal of Max’s anger and feelings of isolation can be unsettling for some parents who worry about negative emotional influences on their children.
Fantasy versus Reality: Some educators express concern that the imaginary world may encourage children to blur the lines between fantasy and reality, potentially leading to behavioral issues.

Case Studies

There have been notable instances of schools banning the book, which serve as case studies on the impact of such decisions. For example:

California (2010): A parent in a California school district challenged the book, calling for its removal due to its violent elements. After discussions, the book remained available, but it spurred conversation about parental rights in educational spaces.
New Jersey (2014): A school board in New Jersey faced backlash after a parent requested the book be banned, sparking a lively community debate about censorship and children’s literature. Ultimately, “Where the Wild Things Are” remained in the curriculum.

Statistics on Book Bans

According to a report by the American Library Association, there were over 300 book challenges reported in 2021 alone, with children’s literature facing a significant portion of these challenges. The report highlights the growing trend of removing books from school libraries and classrooms:

In a 2021 survey, 41% of librarians reported having challenged books in their collections.
Children’s books comprised approximately 25% of all book challenges documented that year.

While the banning of “Where the Wild Things Are” remains a notable example, it reflects a broader trend in society where literature is often scrutinized through varying moral lenses.

The Impact of Banning Literature

Banning books, including “Where the Wild Things Are,” has significant ramifications, including:

Censorship: The removal of literature limits children’s access to diverse experiences and perspectives, potentially stunting their emotional and social development.
Cultural Understanding: Books that challenge societal norms can help foster understanding and dialogue among children regarding complex emotions and human behavior.
Parental Involvement: The challenges surrounding the book often lead to discussions about the role of parents in determining what is suitable for their children versus the autonomy and educational rights of schools.

Positive Reception and Support

Despite the challenges it faces, “Where the Wild Things Are” also enjoys a robust base of support. Educators and child development experts often argue that:

Literary Merit: The work is praised for its beautiful illustrations and emotional depth. Its authenticity allows children to confront difficult themes in a safe space.
Emotional Intelligence: The book can help children navigate their feelings about anger and isolation, fostering skills in emotional regulation and empathy.
Imaginative Play: The narrative encourages imaginative play, which is crucial for cognitive and creative development in young children.

Conclusion

“Where the Wild Things Are” remains a powerful narrative that resonates with the emotional landscapes of childhood. Although it has faced criticism and bans in certain areas, its ability to foster growth, understanding, and dialogue cannot be underestimated. As discussions surrounding the appropriation of children’s literature continue, the conversation around “Where the Wild Things Are” stands at the intersection of freedom of expression and parental concern, highlighting the complexities of teaching children in an increasingly divergent moral landscape.