In today's developing view of education, a disquieting trend looms—the erosion of students' right to choose what they read. This erosion, fueled by an alarming surge in censorship attempts, casts a shadow over the very essence of intellectual exploration. Recent years have witnessed an unprecedented number of challenges aimed at restricting access to books, targeting themes that embrace human diversity, inclusivity, and the tapestry of life itself. As educators, administrators, and scholars grapple with this critical juncture, Supporting Students' Intellectual Freedom in Schools: The Right to Read serves as a comprehensive resource they can turn to for support and knowledge. Distinguished editors Danielle Hartsfield, Samantha Hull, Sue Kimmel, and Westry Whitaker have crafted a compass to navigate these turbulent waters. In this book, they amass a wealth of insights, strategies, and perspectives, fostering a renaissance of intellectual liberty within educational institutions. This volume transcends the surface, offering a comprehensive blueprint that arms educators and administrators with the knowledge to champion the right to read. From the theoretical underpinnings to pragmatic approaches, this book is a beacon of empowerment for those who value the transformative potential of literature. This book is a call to action, resonating with teachers, school librarians, administrators, and scholars who refuse to let censorship erode the foundations of education. As censorship attempts proliferate, its chapters offer fortification, providing educators at all levels with the tools to safeguard students' intellectual freedom. From the hallowed halls of academia to the vibrant classrooms of K-12, the insights within these pages shape curricula, conversations, and a collective commitment to nurturing minds that thrive on diversity and inquiry. In a world clamoring for unwavering advocates of intellectual freedom, Supporting Students' Intellectual Freedom in Schools is not just a solution—it is a declaration of resolute solidarity in the pursuit of knowledge and the unassailable right to read.
Author Biography:
Danielle E. Hartsfield is an Associate Professor in the Department of Elementary and Special Education at the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega. She graduated from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia with a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. Her research interests include children's literature and issues of censorship and intellectual freedom.
