School Trustees to Debate Use of Novel ‘Beloved’

In response to complaints from parents, Anaheim Union High School District trustees will debate today if the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “Beloved,” should be used in 12th-grade English classes.

Teachers and a textbook review committee earlier this year recommended that the book by Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison be added to the core reading list for seniors.

The book was tested in one classroom this year, and seemed to meet the teacher’s approval, district officials said.

But some parents protested, contending the novel--a portrayal of slavery and its aftermath--contains violent and sexual content that is inappropriate for high school students.

At least two trustees on the five-member board, including President Harald Martin, said they will oppose adding the book to the list.

“I wouldn’t want my grown children to read the material in the book,” Trustee Katherine Smith said. “There are too many wonderful, good things in life to talk about, besides what is contained in the book.”

In similar disputes elsewhere about use of the book in high school classrooms, supporters have contended that the novel’s message about slavery and its effects on society outweigh its graphic material.

The 7:30 p.m. meeting will be at district headquarters, 501 Crescent Way, Anaheim. Information: (714) 999-3511.