Americus

“Though fast-paced to the point of flowing somewhat erratically, the moral of the story does focus on the fact that we do live in a free country where we should be allowed to read what we want, watch what we want, and listen to what we want—though for minors, these privileges should be monitored by parents.”

Neil Barton and his best bud, Danny Burns are graduating from middle school in Americus, Oklahoma. Neil, with a consistently pessimistic attitude, is kept from constant doom and gloom by Danny. Both are quiet, intelligent boys who love books, which makes them the brunt of teasing by many of their peers. They are also labeled gay because of their close friendship.

Danny’s mom learns he is addicted to the fantasy series, The Adventures of Apathea Ravenchilde, and she goes on a campaign to ban the books from the local library. She cites them as immoral and blasphemous and far too evil for young minds. Danny has the audacity to contradict her, causing his parents to send him to military school.

Neil, who also loves this series, lives with his single mom, but she has more of an open mind about the books.

Neil is despondent when his friend leaves, but soon gets a part-time job at the town library. There he befriends librarian, Charlotte Murphy, also a lover of the fantasy series and someone with whom he can discuss the books.

Danny’s mom is unrelenting with her pious crusade to “protect” the children, demanding a say at the town council meeting. She speaks her mind, but the council members decide to read the books themselves before taking action.

When the council reconvenes, Charlotte and Neil speak in favor of their beloved books, citing their right to certain freedoms. Will the council agree with Danny’s mom? Will other parents join in her crusade? Should certain books be kept from youngsters?

Americus contains two stories in one by offering snippets depicting The Adventures of Apathea Ravenchilde along with Neil’s account.

The adults as well as the children tend to be backstabbing and mean spirited gossips. Several teachers introduced in the book have an ambivalent or callous attitude regarding their students.

Along with these negatives, profanity is sprinkled liberally throughout—which seems to endorse its acceptability.

Though fast-paced to the point of flowing somewhat erratically, the moral of the story does focus on the fact that we do live in a free country where we should be allowed to read what we want, watch what we want, and listen to what we want—though for minors, these privileges should be monitored by parents.