‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Banned by Public Libraries
EL James’s Fifty Shades of Grey is the fastest selling book of the year in the UK, and it has been on the New York Times bestseller’s list for nine weeks now. The novel, which began as a simple piece of Twilight fan fiction and evolved into something much broader, is being devoured by (mostly female) readers across the world. It’s even being adapted into a feature film, rumoured to contain a number of A-list stars. So why is this hot novel catching so much heat?
The controversial book follows the story of Anastasia Steele a sweet, virginal college grad who lusts after a troubled, misunderstood billionaire named Christian Grey (does this sound familiar to anyone?). After she signs a contract that allows Grey full control over her life, the two begin exploring bondage and submission at Grey’s behest. Romance ensues.
The book has captivated readers of all ages and genders, though it has developed a certain popularity among married mothers, leading to it being branded by some as ‘mommy porn’. It has drawn criticism from a number of reviewers, who look down upon its fan fiction origins and apparently poor writing, as well as from some feminists, who perceive the relationship between Christian and Anastasia to be unhealthy and a step backwards for women’s rights.
While many bookstores and libraries across the country have taken advantage of the racy romance’s multiple demographic-spanning popularity, several public libraries in a number of different states have banned the book, calling it ‘pornographic’ and criticizing it for receiving poor reviews.
“It doesn’t suit our community standards,” said Cay Hohmeister, director of libraries for Leon County, Florida.
Have you read Fifty Shades of Grey? What did you think of it? Let us know in the comments!
BONUS: If you haven’t gotten around to picking up a Mothers’ Day gift yet, maybe you should consider this (if your mom isn’t one of the thousands who have read it already, that is). You’re welcome.
