Banned Book: Blubber by Judy Blume

Of all the pre-teen/juvenile fictions I have read during this week, nothing has bothered me nearly as much as Blubber. That's not to say I think it should be banned, because I don't. I actually think it is a good book for kids to read because it puts teasing in a new light, and will hopefully give them empathy for the victims.

In our society, people who are different are often picked on. The smart kids, the not-so-smart kids, the overweight kids, the shy kids. I was never in a school where the kids got as bad as the kids in this book, but I don't doubt it happens. Kids can be crueler than adults any day.

Poor Linda Fischer. The fifth grade girl was overweight, and had the misfortune to do an animal report about whales. From that point on, she was Blubber.

The kids in her class were heartless and incredibly cruel. From notes, whispers, and stealing her lunch...to tripping her, taking her coat, holding her hands behind her back while lifting her skirt so boys could see her panties, and finally, locking the poor girl in a supply closet.

We saw all of this from the point of view of Jill, a follower of ringleader Wendy, and fellow torturer of Linda. On Halloween these kids tried to strip Linda and make her walk into the classroom naked. Seriously. So when the tables turned and Jill was the one being targeted, forgive me if I didn't feel bad for her.

This book contained: extreme bullying & harassment, religion, and pranks - in addition to the following words: bitch, chink & ass. I do believe though that it is a good cautionary tale. Maybe through it, kids can see just how hurtful their behavior can be.