For the purpose of this discussion, I have chosen the book And Tango Makes Three by Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson.
This story, based on a true story, tells of two male penguins Roy and Silo. While all the other penguins in the zoo were partnering to raise a family, Roy and Silo continued to partner with each other. The zookeeper noticed this long standing pair trying to hatch a small rock, and gave them an egg to raise. Roy and Silo took turns sitting on the egg, and worked as any couple might to raise the penguin chick after hatching.
The homosexual relationship of the penguins has caused such controversy that this book was the most challenged book in America for three consecutive years. Critics say that the book shines a positive light on homosexuality, the story presented is too mature for children, the entire story is not told, and that the book portrays mating rituals graphically while describing overtly sexual acts. These complaints have resulted in the book being banned, restricted, placed in non-fiction, and/or placed in a designated library area.
As a librarian I would explain to patrons that while the book may not be the right choice for their child, there are patrons within the community seeking out a book such as this in order to talk to their child about the issue. As a library, we are here to serve the needs of all patrons, and therefore, keep the book on the shelf for those that might have a need or desire for it. If they feel that it is inappropriate for their child, I would encourage them to share with their child that it is not to be checked out by them. If possible, I would also allow the parent/patron to put a restriction on the account of their child in order to prevent check out. While I would do my best to hear and validate the concerns of the complaining patron, banning it from every family would not be an option in my book.
No comments:
Post a Comment