Program Details

Florida's Raging Book Wars: Different Perspectives

Instructor
Margery Marcus
FSD12091

Course Description

Ever since the first book was banned in America by the Puritans in the 17th century, schools have been fertile ground for censors demanding the removal of books from classrooms and school libraries. Targeted books over the past 150 years have run the gamut from "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" to "The Diary of Anne Frank." This lecture looks at book censorship in Florida, a state ranking among the top in challenges to books. This lecture includes a colorful PowerPoint presentation. In this presentation, the instructor will provide material in an objective manner and will remain open to a wide variety of viewpoints. The ability to think critically, express ideas clearly, and respond civilly are the keystones of the academic experience. Space is limited.

About the Instructor

  • Margery Marcus, Ed.D., retired from Broward County schools after a long and successful career teaching English. Well known for her storytelling ability, her topics run the gamut from book censorship to the British Royal family. She is a frequent presenter at OLLI programs on the campuses of FAU Boca Raton, Jupiter and, Brooklyn College. Her career has been guided by a deep love of learning which began when she read the very first page of "Charlotte’s Web" as a child. Marcus earned a bachelor's degree in English from The College of New Jersey, a master’s degree in education from the University of N.C. at Charlotte and a doctoral degree in education from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale.