Parent doesn’t want to go by the book
Originally published in 2012.
Dear Annie: For the past two summers, the school has recommended to our eighth-grade students several reading selections that contain crude language and explicit sexual content. The “reading specialist” who helped select the titles says, “Kids need to read things that aren’t pretty, because life isn’t perfect.” I argue that they can read about all of the imperfect things in the world in the newspaper.
I’m not looking to ban any books. Parents are free to acquire these titles at bookstores and libraries. I’m only looking for the school to exhibit some level of respect when suggesting titles for their students.
Is this a common situation? Sickened on the East Coast
Dear Sickened: We assume you have read these books and so have a fair basis for your complaint. Some books with offensive language or content are valuable because problems are brought up in a way that provokes an intelligent discussion of issues kids need to face. However, if you feel these books do not accomplish anything worthwhile, the best way to alter the school’s choices is to get a group of parents together and raise your concerns with the administration. They are more likely to listen to multiple parents who offer reasonable objections.
Dear Annie: My sister and I have been estranged for many years, in part because I was not a good sister, and also because her husband is a liar who stole more than $60,000 from our parents.
I am getting married soon, and my parents would like to see us get along. I was happy to invite her to my wedding, but when she RSVP’d, she included her husband. He was not invited.
If I tell her he’s not welcome, I fear the reunion my parents want will be cancelled and our relationship will never be repaired. However, it is my wedding day, and I don’t want my sister’s husband’s presence to put a damper on it. Any suggestions? Want Peace in the Family
Dear Peace: We hate to stick up for a guy who stole money from your parents, but it is improper to invite one half of a married couple. Your parents, who were his victims, seem willing to forgive him. And you admit you weren’t a “good sister.” There appears to be blame to go around and acceptance from your parents. You don’t have to interact with the guy or be more than polite. But try to tolerate his presence for the sake of your parents. Annie’s Mailbox is written by Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar, longtime editors of the Ann Landers column.