Controversial children’s books

Bubmle-Ardy

By Maurice Sendak

Popular children’s book author Maurice Sendak, who wrote the beloved Where the Wild Things Are, has released a new book for kids that he both wrote and illustrated. Bumble-Ardy, which evolved from a 1970s Sesame Street segment, is about a nine-year-old pig who has no parents. He plans his very first birthday party at his aunt’s house while she’s away.

While it sounds like a light-hearted kids’ book, some parents are claiming Bumble-Ardy is too scary for kids. The book introduces the concept of death, and many moms and dads feel that it’s too much for young kids.

Image courtesy HarperCollins Children’s

Go the F**k to Sleep

By Adam Mansbach

Go the F**k to Sleep is not a children’s book — it’s described as “a children’s book for adults.” Written in the style of a classic kid’s tale, Go the F**k to Sleep is for moms and dads who have had it up to here with their little one’s bedtime routine…or lack thereof. The book went viral well before it was actually released and Samuel L. Jackson narrated a video version.

Some parents thought it was hilarious and could relate all too well. And others, not so much. The book received a lot of criticism, with parents calling it vulgar, inappropriate and anything but amusing. Others worried that young kids might get a hold of it because it looks just like a child’s book.

Maggie Goes on a Diet

By Paul M. Kramer

Maggie Goes On a Diet hasn’t been released yet, but the book about a 14-year-old who goes on a diet is available for pre-order and parents aren’t happy. The plot summary states Maggie “goes on a diet and is transformed from being extremely overweight and insecure to a normal sized girl who becomes the school soccer star. Through time, exercise and hard work, Maggie becomes more and more confident and develops a positive self image.”

Scores of parents are not pleased about a book that highlights a young girl’s body size and that she attains soccer success after shrinking down. Barnes & Noble notes the book is for eight- to 12-year-olds and many experts and parents question whether it’s appropriate for children so young.