Controversy has arisen over the book due to the use of the word "scrotum" on its first page. A number of school libraries have decided to ban or otherwise censor the book according to a New York Times article.[2] While some accuse the author of attempting "Howard Stern-type shock treatment", author Susan Patron described the passage in question as being based on her personal knowledge of a rattlesnake biting a dog's scrotum, as well as an explanation of anatomy for readers 9 to 12 years old. She appeared on NPR's Talk of the Nation to defend her choice of words.[3].

The American Library Association responded to the NYT article with a statement regarding the value of the book.[4] The authors of the three Newbery Honor books, Cynthia Lord, Jennifer Holm, and Kirby Larson also supported the "scrotum" usage.[5] The story gained further exposure when the blogosphere chimed in.[6][7][8] Kristen McLean, executive director of the Association of Booksellers for Children, provided the industry's response.[9]

Simon & Schuster have posted a video on their website where Patron discusses the book and her influences in an interview by fellow Newbery Medalist Cynthia Kadohata. In this video Rick Richter, President and Publisher of the Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, states "Simon & Schuster ultimately hopes that readers will recognize this wonderful book as a whole, and the charm and innocence of its main character Lucky, and will see beyond one word and the controversy surrounding the book. Susan Patron has written a masterful novel celebrating small town values and we can only hope that her deserved Newbery winner is recognized for the treasure that it truly is."[10]

For Immediate Release
February 22, 2007


Statement regarding the true value of "Higher Power of Lucky"

CHICAGO - The following is a joint statement released by Kathleen T. Horning, president, Association for Library Service to Children, and Cyndi Phillip, president, American Association of School Librarians, regarding the "Higher Power of Lucky."

"Recent media coverage failed to discuss the true value of the 'Higher Power of Lucky,' by Susan Patron. The author’s use of one word should not prevent children from having free access to this remarkable piece of children’s literature. Children and their families should be given the opportunity to read this book and develop their opinions.

"The 'Higher Power of Lucky' is a perfectly nuanced blend of adventure and survival, both emotional and physical. It is a gently humorous character study, as well as a blueprint for a self-examined life. The book serves as a reminder that children support one another just as adults do.

"Libraries are about inclusion rather than exclusion. The freedom to read, speak, think and express ourselves is core to our American values. Part of living in a democracy means respecting each other’s differences and the right of all people to choose for themselves what they and their families read.

"Fortunately, most libraries do offer a full spectrum of resources and ideas from which our patrons can choose. Librarians understand that children mature at different rates and have different interests, reading abilities and life experiences. Decisions about what materials are suitable for particular children should be made by the people who know them best - their parents or guardians.

"We believe that every family should have the opportunity to read the 'Higher Power of Lucky' and that every public and school library should consider adding the book to their collections."

school library or regular library?

i say allow it.

What's so bad about saying scrotum?

I can't believe this is even an issue for you, B.

Do you mean, you can't believe that people complain about books at the library, or you can't believe that I'm asking the opinion of RMers?

I can't believe that you would even consider banning a book from a library.

I wasn't considering banning it. I was just curious if it would start a debate.

In fact, the request wasn't even to remove the book. People don't like to feel like censors. The mother wanted it moved to a higher age group or labeled with a sticker. The suggested text for the sticker was hilarious. I wish I had it with me. It was something like.

PARENTS BEWARE! THIS BOOK CONTAINS POTENTIALLY SHOCKING AND DISTURBING SUBJECT MATTER THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR SOME FAMILIES.

Essentially, it would be banning the book while still on the shelves.

I don't even remember a "sex scene" in The Subtle Knife, so you're probably good to keep it. If anything, people in NC should be pissed that it basically talks about killing god.

Do you mean, you can't believe that people complain about books at the library, or you can't believe that I'm asking the opinion of RMers?