15 Kids’ Books And Movies That Somehow Became Super Controversial

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15 Kids’ Books And Movies That Somehow Became Super Controversial

Ah, the stories of kids’ books and films banned and censored throughout history! From Dr. Seuss’s Green Eggs and Ham to Disney’s 1942 short “Der Fuehrer’s Face”, from Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach to Where’s Waldo?, from Harriet the Spy to The Giving Tree, from Charlotte’s Web to Where the Wild Things Are, from The Lorax to Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, from The Lego Batman Movie to Cars 2, from Beauty and the Beast to Hocus Pocus 2—these stories of censorship and controversy have been around for a long time. 

It’s easy to think of censorship as a relic of the past, but it’s still alive and well today. In some cases, it’s even more insidious than it was before, as powerful forces use their influence to silence dissenting voices and protect their interests. But it’s also true that in some cases, censorship can be a positive force, protecting children from inappropriate and dangerous material. 

Whatever your opinion on the subject, the stories of these banned books and films are a fascinating window into our culture and our history. They remind us of the power of the written word and the power of storytelling, and of the importance of standing up for our beliefs. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the most famous kids’ books and films that have been demonized, banned or censored over the years. Enjoy!

Controversy welcomed, tolerance denied.

CRACKED BEAUTY AND THE BEAST A theater in Alabama canceled Beauty and the Beast because of its gay character, which the new Christian owners don't agree with. They said it may be controversial, but that's fine.

Variety

Cars 2: not so child-friendly?

CRACKED CARS 2 It got mixed reviews; some said it was too violent, had a complicated spy plot, and was too focused on oil and alternative fuels.

Today / NY Times 

Normalizing inclusive views: apparently a radical agenda.

CRACKED THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE Critics say it pushes an agenda with pro-gay propaganda. But it just normalizes inclusive views of gender and sexuality, which some fear. R

The Mary Sue

Harriet’s spying got her into trouble... and therapy.

CRACKED HARRIET THE SPY Harriet the Spy caused a stir when it came out because of its flawed main character. It was even banned in some schools. Harriet was a spy who saw and said too much, and had to see a shrink for her outbursts. INRIU

NPR / New Republic 

The Giving Tree got the ax.

CRACKED THE GIVING TREE A Colorado library banned The Giving Tree because it was seen as sexist and predatory.

Romper / SLJ 

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