Goosebumps: Childhood Frights, Book Bans, and the Value of Scary Stories
Why is a series started in 1992, not okay for audiences in 2024?
Consider this post a thought experiment. I'm exploring the intersection of my interest in literature, advocacy against book bans, and the current season. And since it is Halloween, here's what I've got.
Let's talk about the Goosebumps series. This deliciously mysterious collection was one of my childhood favorites. From ages 9 to 13 (when I think I outgrew them), I'd eagerly beg my parents to take me to Barnes & Noble whenever a new volume was released. Ah, those pre-internet days before home delivery and e-books! I devoured these books feverishly.
Welcome to the Dead House, published in 1992, was the first of 230 books
The Goosebumps books all featured young protagonists in mildly scary scenarios. These heroes were never in real danger—you knew they wouldn't die—but they always had to solve some problem. Despite their harmless nature, these books are frequently challenged and even banned. Why?
In Florida, the books have faced repeated bans for "satanic symbolism, possession, and descriptions of dogs as menacing and attacking." Again, no kid was ever harmed in the book, and the kids triumph at the end of each book. They overcome adversity. They defeat the demons. Is that so bad?
Engaging with literature that explores challenging or frightening themes can be a valuable experience. By allowing readers to confront and process fears, navigate complex situations, and explore a range of emotions within a safe fictional environment, literature can equip them with tools to become more resilient. And they are reading. Not on their phones, not staring at a screen—face down, or on a page (even if it's a Kindle).
Despite their popularity and seemingly harmless nature, Goosebumps books have faced bans and challenges in various parts of the United States. Most notably, they were banned in Florida schools for alleged "satanic symbolism, possession, and descriptions of dogs as menacing and attacking." This decision reflects a broader trend of censoring literature based on subjective interpretations and fears.
Jack Black played Goosebumps author, R.L. Stine, in the 2015 movie, Goosebumps. The movie holds a 78% on Rotten Tomatoes. It has not been banned.
Banning Goosebumps is not just misguided; it's harmful to young readers. These books serve several crucial functions in child development:
They encourage reading: For many children, including myself, "Goosebumps" was a gateway to a lifelong love of literature.
They build courage: By exposing children to manageable doses of fear in a safe, fictional context, these books help develop coping mechanisms.
They foster problem-solving skills: The protagonists must always use their wits to overcome challenges.
They spark the imagination: The supernatural elements in these stories stimulate creativity and imaginative thinking.
Banning these books deprives children of these benefits and sends a dangerous message about censorship. It promotes the idea that we should shield children from any content that might be remotely challenging or frightening rather than teaching them how to engage with and process such material critically. At what age should kids start learning this, if not now?
Moreover, the reasons cited for banning Goosebumps often seem arbitrary or based on misunderstandings. The idea that these books promote satanism or violence is gross. Have the people banning them even read them? If anything, they encourage bravery, friendship, and the triumph of good over evil—values we should promote.
As we celebrate Halloween, remember the value of a good scare - especially for young readers. Let's champion books like "Goosebumps" that engage children's imaginations, encourage reading, and provide safe spaces to explore and overcome fears.
For those interested in staying informed about book bans and fighting against censorship, here are some valuable resources:
The American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom: http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom
PEN America's Index of School Book Bans: https://pen.org/report/banned-usa-growing-movement-to-censor-books-in-schools/
The National Coalition Against Censorship: https://ncac.org/
Remember, every time we advocate for a banned book, we advocate for the freedom to read, learn, and grow. Let's keep the spirit of Goosebumps alive—not just for Halloween but for the sake of young readers everywhere. Happy Halloween - make it a spooky one!