The Carroll Community School District (CCSD) board-appointed material reconsideration committee reached a consensus last night (Monday) on the first of 10 books being reviewed following complaints about their alleged graphic content. “Sold” by Patricia McCormick was the first book up for review. The novel is a fictionalized tale of human trafficking in India based on true stories from victims. Currently, the book is available at the Carroll High School (CHS) library and is used in at least one sophomore-level English course. Before moving into formal discussions, Committee Chair David Hagan emphasized the committee’s directive.
The complaints against this particular book objected to graphic content, including prostitution and sexual assault of a minor and sought to have it removed from the library. Committee member Thetia Polking says the book’s plot centers on human trafficking, which can be challenging to present to a high school-aged audience.
Teachers often learn about signs and indicators of human trafficking or sexual abuse in students. Jean Guy, a retired English instructor, asks why students should not be aware of situations outside their own experience.
Hagen says he did not consider any of the content as pornographic but acknowledges it is undoubtedly unsettling in some instances.
The book first appeared in the CHS library in 2007 and has only been checked out 23 times, including nine times during the 2021-22 school year. The committee can make one of three recommendations: do nothing, remove the book from the library, or keep it with some restrictions. Of the eight committee members in attendance, seven voted to leave the book in the library, and one voted to keep it with limited student access. The next book up for review is “Red Hood” by Elana Arnold. The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 21.
