A Book List I will “swear” by

http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/censors-in-move-on-kids-books/2006/04/29/1146198391643.html

I would like potential readers to know that Racing the Rope contains a few light slang words that may be interpreted as curse words by some in the context of the dialogue exchanges between some of the twelve-year old students. I feel these words are appropriately placed and bring a more realistic interpretation to the characters.

For those who may not be fully aware of the multitude of children’s literature on the shelves that use such slang for effect, I’m using this page to start a list of such literature as a reference guide to what you will find at your local library or in your area school library. I can’t believe that any one person has read all the books that are available to children to know what should be stocked and what shouldn’t. Bottom line, we as adults often have no idea what is in between the covers of the books our children are reading, and so not allowing a child to enjoy a particular book for fear that it might turn them into a cursing, violent little devil is contradictory. In closing, if you are under the impression that children don’t eek out those little curse words they here you say when someone cuts you off, you’ve never been on an elementary school playground.

So, here is my list of children’s books I “swear” by. I’ve read them all and can attest to the beauty of each one. I will accept your contributions to the list! Send them via the contact form. I’m quite sure in no time this list will contain hundreds of popular books for children. I’ll try not to dredge up too many old classics like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn that have been banned for silly reasons.

The Boy Who Lost His Face Louis Sachar (Yup, famous author of Holes)

There’s a Girl in the Boy’s Bathroom Louis Sachar

My Brother Sam is Dead Chris Collier

To Kill a Mockingbird

Lord of the Flies William Golding

Jade Tiger Jenn Reese

Forever Judy Bloom (Enough said)

The Great Gilly Hopkins Katherine Paterson (Yup, also wrote that beloved Bridge to Terabithia)

Blubber Judy Bloom

Freaky Friday Mary Rodgers