In April some publishers, led by Random House, announced they wanted to standardize the marketing of children’s books by putting age bands/labels on the books. There is a petition to stop this, led by some popular authors.
I have mixed feelings about this issue. As a parent, homeschool teacher, and reviewer I see some merit in the idea. I have seen some age recommendations on the inner flaps of books which can be helpful (and not broadcasting the info). I don’t think that all books need them, but some (very few and mostly YA) could use them for content. It should always be viewed as a suggestion, never a restriction.
My oldest son said he had heard they want to create an organization to be responsible for determining the ages. That to me is unnecessary, costly, and possibly dangerous. It is far better to have the author involved with a suggested age rather than some wacky organization that may be out to restrict reading of certain books. On reading others’ posts, I believe that the protesting has been extreme and reactionary. As seen with the movie, music, and gaming industries, parents do want guidance. Otherwise it wouldn’t even be an issue. Personally, I’d rather that guidance came from within the publishing realm instead of a protesting or policing organization.
Instead of only reactions against the idea, I would like to see real discussion about how it can be done without being a problem. For example, the recommendation on the flap that most people don’t even notice. A reminder to parents, sellers, librarians and readers that the age label is only a suggestion; you can read what you like. I don’t believe it has to be an all or nothing proposition.
July 15th, 2008 at 2:55 am
I think your comments are right on. As a suggestion, it could be helpful but they don’t need to overdo it!