Introduction

There are limits to what a library can, and should, include in its materials collection. Libraries face limited budgets, limited funds, and an overabundance of new books published annually. In order to insure that high quality materials are selected and maintained as part of a library collection, it is imperative that a library have a solid collection development policy, including selection criteria, and a procedure for material challenges. For, where there are library materials, there will most certainly be challenges.

Sometimes, one author will face multiple instances where his or her works are challenged; they get a bit of a reputation for being controversial. What is it about these authors and their works that makes people so uncomfortable?

 This blog will serves as an in depth look at just such an author, Lauren Myracle. A brief Biography will discuss some of Myracle’s background. Myracle has written books for both juvenile and young adult readers; this blog will focus more on the works aimed at young adult readers, aged 14 and up. The Young Adult Novel section of the blog contains a list of some specific instances where Myracle’s work has been challenged, banned, or target by censors. A brief discussion of Myracle’s views on censorship and intellectual freedom can be found in the Censorship section. Located in the Rationale section are detailed rationales of two of Myracle’s books, TTYL and Kissing Kate. Reflection on the overall study of Lauren Myracle as a controversial author is located in the Final Thoughts section, followed by a section containing References for all the information contained in the blog.

Photo Reference

San Jose Public Library [screen name]. (2008, August 23). Teen Room. [digital image]. Retrieved from https://flic.kr/p/5ufVrU