Hello, my name is Nyshira A. Lundy. I am a 15 year old freshman and resident of the Katy/Richmond area. Recently, the superintendent of Katy ISD pulled a book out of the district libraries called "The Hate U Give". This book was removed without the superintendent or school board even reading it! He pulled this book due to a complaint that he had received from one father who claimed to have read a minute portion of this novel. This dad exclaimed "I did read some of the pages. I read 13 pages, and I was very appalled." He stated that he felt this way because, the book displays some explicit language and the use of drugs.

Written below is my letter to the superintendent and my reasons why I think this book should be placed back on the school shelves.

Dear Dr. Lance Hindt,

   I’m writing this letter to discuss the removal of the book “The Hate U Give” from your district's libraries. Correct me if I am wrong but, the reason behind this book being pulled from the shelves is because of the explicit content laced in it. I understand your reasoning for when it comes to sheltering your students from harsh words or entertaining the subject of drugs or sex. However, I think you should heavily consider putting the book back on your school shelves. Due to the fact that the book is educational when it comes to informing teenagers about unnecessary shooting against African-american people. This book showcases the aftermath of a situation like this concerning friends and family, which is something that teenagers need to be informed about. Not only is this book a superb educational source but, it also has an inspiring story. While reading this book I realized that the main character (Starr Carter) was a lot like me in many ways! Growing up as black girl and attending a predominantly white prep school, at times it can be difficult to feel confident. I personally thought that it was really cool to see that Starr felt the same way. Starr Carter has taught me that it is okay to be myself. That I should take charge and stand up for what I believe in. Most importantly Starr has taught me that my black is beautiful. I really admire the author “Angie Thomas” and after reading her book I was even inspired to create my own! I would strongly suggest that you take the time to read this incredible book and reconsider putting this book  back on your school shelves. In fact this book might be a great tool for the Katy ISD school district. It can bring about unity and understanding among the different races in your middle and high schools. By placing the book back on the shelf it also gives the children a choice. If they decide they would like to read this book and their parents allow them to, then they should have the freedom to do so. However, if there is a child that does not want to read this book or their parent does not approve of them reading it then they don’t have to. I personally believe that children should have intellectual freedom. I would assume that you as a superintendent would have the same intent.

Sincerely,

Ny'shira A. Lundy

If you also believe in intellectual freedom then please join me in my protest by signing my petition.

To read more concerning this particular topic visit the link(s) below:

The Hate U Give (Bustle)

The Hate U Give (Aol)

The Hate U Give (Vulture)

The Hate U Give (Quartz)

The Hate U Give (Boston Globe)

To read more about this incredible author click the link below:

http://angiethomas.com/