Property of the Rebel Librarian by Allison Varnes, 267 pages. Random House, 2018. $16.99.
Language: G, Mature Content: G, Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW
June loves to read. When her strict parents find her reading a book about witches, they take all of her books away and complain to the school. The school has the librarian and half the collection removed. Then the principal decides that all students must have their books approved and all books not approved will be confiscated. June begins borrowing books from the Little Free Library she passes on the way to school. Other kids find out and before you know it, she has her own library operating out of an empty locker. She's eventually caught and realizes it’s time to stand up for what she believes.
This book had a lot of potential. It tackles the issue of censorship, but loses the argument by exaggerating the case. There are three likable characters: June, her friend Matt and Ms. Bradshaw the librarian. The actions of all the others are so illogical or deplorable that it makes for a frustrating read. June is an admirable girl and is able to redeem the book.
Reviewer: Valerie McEnroe, Media Specialist
FROM CINDY: If you want to read an excellent version of this exact topic, try Ban This Book by Alan Gratz
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