Monday, March 8, 2021

Dr Seuss surges in popularity!

Banned Seuss books soar in sales!

After the publisher of the Dr Seuss books announced last week that they would no longer print 6 Seuss titles, sales of the books on eBay and Amazon increased dramatically.  The main criticism of Dr Seuss was the way that he drew Asian people, specifically Chinese men, whom at that time were often called: "Chinamen", in his book "And to think that I saw it on Mulberry Street". Since the company made their announcement to 'cancel' these books in order to combat racism, the books have suddenly dramatically increased in sales and in price. Look at the picture above from Amazon on Friday, March 5. The price for a used copy of the book is $269.99! 

On eBay the same used book is $199 as you can see in the second picture. At least you get free shipping for the eBay item. In fact, Dr Seuss has risen to the 9th biggest seller on Amazon!

Since this announcement there have been many articles from both a progressive perspective supporting the banning of these books and from conservative perspectives that oppose banning these titles for 'racism'. As we wrote earlier, at least some Asian people, including my own family, do not consider the pictures racist. On the other hand, from a 'woke' perspective, they do appear offensive. It is important to remember that ideas change over time. What was once considered normal is no longer acceptable. In the case of offensive jokes that is understandable, but in terms of illustrations in children's' books, whether or not we need to reinterpret the past through the perspectives of today is not so clear. As a result, many  libraries will keep the books on the shelves, although they may not use those particular titles in programming.

Question: Do you think banning children's books is ever a good thing?

Dr. Seuss books' sales soar after 6 titles canceled for ‘racist’ imagery

A Dr. Seuss Expert Cuts Through the Noise on the Cancel Culture Controversy 

Worcester library director, like others in area, keeping Dr. Seuss on the shelves amid controversy

Dr Seuss books now make up nine of Amazon's top 10 best-seller list following recent controversy over 'racist' imagery

Dr. Seuss books are taking over Amazon's bestseller list




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