SEC: Monster

[Ellen Wickham <ewickham@indep.k12.mo.us>]

This is reference to Monster: The autobiography of an L.A. gang member,
by Sanyika Shakur aka Monster Kody Scott

I'm needing some help with this one!  I've been asked to add this book
to our collection (9-12 school).  As with all requests, I research, find
reviews, etc.  and I found recommendations from Kirkus and Library
Journal   I decided to discuss this (probably a mistake) with my
(usually) supportive principal who voiced his opinion against the
purchase, based primarily onthe prolific use of the "f" word.  His idea
is to provide permission slips (yikes!) to warn parents that their child
is reading the book (doesn't this negate confidentiality?!).   His
opinion is that if we don't condone use of the "f" word in the
classroom/halls, why should we condone it in print, which is what (he
believes) we would be doing if we purchased the book.  I mentioned that
this would not be the only book in the collection with the "f" word in
it. Unfortunately, we had to cut the discussion short.  I know I should
have just exercised my professional judgment and purchased the book,
but. . . . . you know what they say about hindsight.  I haven't read the
book yet, but I plan to in the next couple of days.

I think the message and information imparted here -- not just for kids
living on the edge, but for sociological research -- far outweigh the
use of the "f" word.  (and for all you Dewey sensitive Missourians --
it's a 300!)

I need some good ammunition for the continuation of our discussion.  So
all you wonderful Library Media Specialists around the globe:  come to
my rescue!

Also, if you know of any books (without too much thought) that have the
"f" word in it, send the title/author along also. Fiction or nonfiction
would be a big help.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions and advice.
Ellen



C. Ellen Wickham             voice 816-521-2710
Library Media Specialist    fax  816-521-2924
Truman High School
3301 S. Noland Road
Independence, MO 64055
ewickham@indep.k12.mo.us

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