I recently read Kirsten Miller's Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books, a book I thoroughly enjoyed. It's a light read that deals with the serious subject of banning books, something that's happening more often in more places.
The book is set in a small Georgia town where everybody knows everybody, history goes deep, and gossip goes even deeper. Lula Dean, bless her heart, creates the Concerned Parents Committee that aims to rid the school and public libraries of "pornographic" books in order to protect the town's children. She then puts up a little library, in front of her house, filled with conservative books that made her the person she is today. What Lula doesn't know is that the daughter of her high school archrival replaces all her books with banned books, putting false dust covers on them.
It's funny to read about the readers' surprise when they find different books in the covers, but it's inspiring to see how the books change their perspectives and their lives. Books are powerful in helping people learn--about history and each other. Sometimes, the lessons are difficult and unpleasant, but they're necessary for moving forward to a better future and to avoid being mired in the mistakes of the past.
Kirsten Miller does a great job presenting the issues surrounding book banning in a fun, interesting, and non-preaching way. Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books is a real page turner filled with the unexpected. It's sure to stay with you for a while.
Have you read Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books? What are your thoughts on it? Share with us!
Ever yours truly from the perch.
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