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View STCC's Periodic Table of Banned Books
"A frustrated teacher in a southern town, who's education is being underutilized finds his own purpose in helping bring meaning to the last days of a young man due to be executed. In teaching one person to die with dignity he redeems himself." - HELM
Why was this book challenged?
Why was this book challenged?
Banned book element tile
Reasons: Sexual Content, Violence, Profanity
Reasons: Sexual Content, Violence, Profanity
According to the National Coalition Against Censorship, A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines tells a story which addresses racism and racial identity, and was challenged for sexual references and profanity by two parents in 2008.
See our Frequently Asked Questions webpage for more information about why books written by Black authors, and stories that address racism are frequently targeted for censorship.
Ways to read this book at STCC!
Ways to read this book at STCC!
Members of the STCC community have full borrowing privileges at the STCC Library, located in Building 19, 2nd Floor, provided they are actively registered in the college system and their records are in good standing.
Database access and e-content is available to all students, faculty, and staff using the following credentials:
Username: STCC ID number
Password: Last name in capital letters.
Additional Resources and Accessibility
Additional Resources and Accessibility
If you prefer to listen to your books, or if the print or eBook versions of this book are checked out at STCC, you have additional checkout options through Massachusetts public libraries. CW/MARS and Boston Public Library eCards will give you access to eBook and Audiobook versions of this book. You can also download the Libby app to listen to audiobooks on your smartphone. These resources are outside of STCC Library, please consult your local public library for any questions regarding these outside resources.
Check public libraries in Western Massachusetts via CW/MARS:
Residents of Massachusetts can sign up for a Boston Public Library eCard, to access their digital materials such as eBooks and downloadable audiobooks. Follow the instructions on the BPL's website:
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