Book review - Property of the Rebel Librarian

Title: Property of the Rebel Librarian
Author: Allison Varnes
Genre: realistic fiction
Similar books: Ban This Book by Alan Gratz
                      I Kill the Mockingbird by Paul Acampora
Rating:

not my favorite

Summary (provided by publisher): When twelve-year-old June Harper's parents discover what they deem an inappropriate library book, they take strict parenting to a whole new level. And everything June loves about Dogwood Middle School unravels: librarian Ms. Bradshaw is suspended, an author appearance is canceled, the library is gutted, and all books on the premises must have administrative approval.
But June can't give up books . . . and she realizes she doesn't have to when she spies a Little Free Library on her walk to school. As the rules become stricter at school and at home, June keeps turning the pages of the banned books that continue to appear in the little library. It's a delicious secret . . . and one she can't keep to herself. June starts a banned book library of her own in an abandoned locker at school. The risks grow alongside her library's popularity, and a movement begins at Dogwood Middle--a movement that, if exposed, could destroy her. But if it's powerful enough, maybe it can save Ms. Bradshaw and all that she represents: the freedom to read.
Equal parts fun and empowering, this novel explores censorship, freedom of speech, and activism. For any kid who doesn't believe one person can effect change...and for all the kids who already know they can!

My opinion: Conversations about censorship in any form, and specifically the right to read, are important. This is particularly true for middle graders who are just beginning to realize that they have rights and that they can take action when those rights are being restricted, that even kids can take action when life is unfair. Any book that starts that conversation is worth reading. That being said, this wouldn't be my first pick. I found the events too extreme, the time frame unrealistic. We go from a complaint about a single book to the complete gutting of the library in a matter of days. Suspension for possession of a book is an extreme punishment and is enacted overnight. It isn't believable. Now, the intent is sound. I just think other books get the message across better.
Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley.