The Harry Potter series will give us a way to address the issue of this attack in class. In the American Library Association's list of challenged books, adolescent literature has risen way up on the list. The other books in the class are usually aimed at slightly older audiences. The Catcher in the Rye , in the 1960s the most frequently taught work of American literature in colleges, still shows up on reading lists in high schools and universities. Huckleberry Finn , previously marketed as a book for boys, is taught in high schools and at the college level.
Twain creates the vernacular voice, and it's a very important moment.
Much of the recent controversy about Huck Finn , Conniff said, results from Twain's use of stereotypes in his depiction of black characters. Although critical of slavery, the book includes racist language, and the ending undercuts much of the progress Huck has made, especially in his understanding of Jim. Some of the racial issues are pretty complex, and teachers have to be aware of the effect on students. You can't just say 'They used to talk like that' and dismiss it. You have to teach the book without letting the issues become harmful.