"Go Ask Alice" Banned: a Case Against Censorship

Go Ask Alice by Beatrice Sparks is a controversial book that has faced challenges and bans in various schools and libraries across the United States. The book, written in the form of a diary, chronicles the life of a teenage girl who becomes addicted to drugs. Despite its popularity among young adult readers, the book has been criticized for its explicit content and the portrayal of drug use. In this essay, I will argue that Go Ask Alice should not be banned and that censorship of the book deprives readers of valuable insights into the realities of drug addiction and the challenges faced by teenagers.

The Raw Portrayal of Drug Addiction

First and foremost, Go Ask Alice provides a raw and unflinching portrayal of the dangers of drug addiction. The book does not glamorize or romanticize drug use; rather, it depicts the devastating impact that drugs can have on an individual's life. By censoring the book, we are denying young readers the opportunity to confront the harsh realities of drug addiction and the potential consequences of experimenting with drugs. According to a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, exposure to realistic portrayals of drug use in literature and media can actually serve as a deterrent for young people considering experimenting with drugs (Pettigrew, 2015).

The Dangerous Precedent of Censorship

Furthermore, the banning of Go Ask Alice sets a dangerous precedent for censorship in literature. The American Library Association reports that attempts to ban books have been steadily increasing in recent years, with many challenges based on objections to the content's offensive language, drug use, or sexual content (American Library Association, 2020). By succumbing to pressure to ban books like Go Ask Alice, we are stifling intellectual freedom and limiting the diversity of ideas and perspectives available to readers. It is essential for young readers to have access to a wide range of viewpoints and experiences, even if these experiences are uncomfortable or challenging.

Opportunity for Open Discussion

In addition, Go Ask Alice provides a valuable opportunity for open and honest discussions about difficult topics such as drug addiction and mental health. Rather than shielding young readers from uncomfortable subjects, educators and parents should use literature like Go Ask Alice as a springboard for meaningful conversations about the challenges faced by teenagers and the importance of making informed choices. In fact, studies have shown that open dialogue about difficult topics can have a positive impact on young people's decision-making processes and mental well-being (Morgan, 2018).

Conclusion

The banning of Go Ask Alice is a misguided and harmful act that deprives young readers of valuable insights into the realities of drug addiction and the challenges faced by teenagers. By censoring the book, we are limiting intellectual freedom, stifling meaningful discussions, and denying young readers the opportunity to confront difficult and uncomfortable subjects. Instead of banning books, we should embrace literature as a means of fostering empathy, understanding, and critical thinking skills in young people. Go Ask Alice has the potential to spark important conversations and provide valuable lessons for young readers, and it should be celebrated rather than censored.