The Power of Books and Censorship

Book bans are a significant concern, as those in favor of them often grasp the power of literature more than opponents realize. The intimate connection a reader has with a book enables a unique relationship that cannot be replicated by other forms of media. Coates emphasizes that the real victims of censorship are the children and students who miss out on diverse perspectives and voices. He argues that the focus should shift from the author's personal experience to the broader implications for young readers who need access to varied literature to formulate their own views.