Quote:
Originally Posted by jAZ
It's focused on kids. The book is good for kids, but the language (in our modern society) puts it at a more mature level than it used to be. If a teacher is choosing between not using the original version and using this version, I'd rather than use this than not.
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I think saying this book is for kids is selling this book short. This isn't a book for kids. This is a classic that tackles enormous social and literary issues that are way too complex for a kid to process, regardless of whether you use the N-word or not. If kids want to read it on their own, fine, give them the edited book. But teachers shouldn't make young kids read this and then treat it like Winnie the Pooh.
But if I want a teacher teaching this to kids? I absolutely want that word in there. It's like sex ed... do you want your kids to learn about it from a high schooler in the hallway or someone who can put it in the right context? They're going to learn about the word and racism anyway, and I think it's a hell of a lot better to tackle it in the presence of responsible adults.