Banned Books Week is coming up

It's just come to my attention that Banned Books Week begins this Saturday, Sept. 25th and goes through October 2d. The official website is here. I was pretty fortunate as a kid; my parents really didn't pay much attention to what I was reading. As a result, I was able to go the library and pick out whatever I wanted. I like to think that I've turned out just fine, too, although perhaps those of you who know me personally may disagree...

It seems like book banning was invented shortly after the printing press was invented, and I'm not sure it's even possible to create an exhaustive list of books that have been banned. Some notable titles include:

• The Catcher in the Rye
• To Kill a Mockingbird
• Twilight
• Harry Potter books
• The Grapes of Wrath
• The Color Purple
• Charlotte's Web
• Lolita
• Invisible Man
• For Whom the Bell Tolls
• The Age of Innocence
• Schindler's List
• O Pioneers

I'm going to do my best to read a banned or challenged book in honor of Banned Books Week. I haven't decided which one yet, but unfortunately there is no shortage of books, ranging from picture books to classics, and I'll be sure to post my reaction when I do. By poking around the Banned Books Week website, you can find lots of lists of books that have been banned or challenged.