Discover Timeless Stories Reimagined Through the Prism of Controversy and Insight with the Contested Classics Series

For Educators and Lifelong Learners: Dive Deeper Into Classic Literature

The Contested Classics series transcends the conventional approach to classic literature by casting a new light on the historical, cultural, and social controversies that have surrounded these works across generations. Featuring seminal titles like The Great Gatsby, Mrs. Dalloway, and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, this series is a bridge for both students in the classroom and adults revisiting these classics, offering rich annotations, insightful essays, and engaging discussion questions designed to provoke thought and deepen understanding.

Rich, Annotated Texts: Delve into each classic with detailed annotations that uncover the controversies, historical context, and societal debates underpinning these works. Designed to enrich the reading experience, these annotations offer profound insights, making these stories resonate with both students and adult readers seeking a deeper understanding.

Insightful Essays: Accompanying each book is a meticulously crafted essay that sheds light on the contested nature of the work, providing perspectives on the societal values and concerns that have influenced its reception over time. These essays serve as a catalyst for classroom debate and personal reflection, offering fresh viewpoints for adults reacquainting themselves with these narratives.

Engaging Discussion Questions: Stimulate critical thinking and dialogue with carefully curated questions that encourage readers to explore the themes, controversies, and historical significance of each work. Ideal for sparking lively discussions in educational settings or book clubs, these questions are tailored to engage and challenge both high school students and adults.

Unmatched Educational and Reflective Value: This series is an invaluable resource for educators aiming to foster analytical thinking and discussion among their students. It also appeals to adult readers eager to explore the complexities and enduring relevance of classic literature from a contemporary vantage point.

Broad Appeal and Timely Relevance: In an era marked by heightened discussions on censorship and freedom of expression, "The Contested Classics" series offers a pertinent exploration of these themes. It invites readers of all ages to understand the complexities of censorship, societal values, and the transformative power of literature.

This edition of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway offers readers a unique opportunity to explore one of the 20th century's most captivating and contested novels. Published in 1925, Woolf's masterful narrative takes us through a single day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a high-society woman in post-World War I England, weaving a tapestry of thoughts, memories, and encounters.

In-Depth Editor's Essay: Delve into an insightful essay that sheds light on why Mrs. Dalloway has been a subject of controversy and censorship. The essay explores the social and historical contexts in which Woolf wrote and how her novel reflects and challenges the norms of its time.

Annotated Text: This edition includes annotations highlighting key passages and themes that have sparked debate. These annotations offer a deeper understanding of Woolf's nuanced exploration of mental health, feminism, and societal expectations.

Discussion Questions: Engage with thought-provoking questions designed to stimulate conversation and reflection, making this book ideal for academic settings or book clubs.

Print ISBN: 9781963549997 * $17.00 USD | Ebook ISBN: 9781963549966 * $9.99 USD

This insightful edition of The Great Gatsby uncovers the layers beneath its glamorous surface. Published in 1925, the novel is renowned for its portrayal of the Roaring Twenties and its exploration of themes such as the American Dream, love, and betrayal. This special edition illuminates why this celebrated masterpiece has also faced its share of controversy and challenges in the modern era. Providing a richer understanding of the text and its historical context with annotations throughout where the top reasons why it’s challenged.

In-Depth Editor's Essay: A detailed essay explaining why The Great Gatsby has been banned or challenged, with historical and cultural context.

Annotated Text: Insightful annotations throughout the text, highlighting sections that have been controversial or reasons for the book's banning.

Discussion Questions: Engage with thought-provoking questions designed to stimulate conversation and reflection, making this book ideal for academic settings or book clubs.

Print ISBN: 9798985191370 * $17.00 USD | Ebook ISBN: 9781963549973 * $9.99 USD

A distinctive edition of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain reinvigorates the timeless classic with a contemporary lens. First published in 1876, Twain's novel captures the youthful adventures and mischiefs of Tom Sawyer, a young boy growing up along the Mississippi River. This edition not only brings to life the charm and humor of Twain's writing but also thoughtfully addresses the reasons behind the book's contested status in modern times. Our editors identify the text that has been challenged and dives deep with annotations on the main reasons for banning this book.

In-Depth Editor's Essay: Explore the controversies surrounding The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and delve into the social, historical, and cultural contexts of the novel, examining its place in today's educational landscape.

Annotated Text: These annotations provide insight into Twain's portrayal of race, society, and childhood in the 19th century.

Discussion Questions: Thoughtfully crafted questions included to encourage critical thinking and discussion, making this edition an invaluable resource for classrooms and reading groups.

Print ISBN: 9781963549980 * $17.00 USD | Ebook ISBN: 9781963549959 * $9.99 USD

Step into the world of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, a novel that has sparked debates, challenged beliefs, and captivated readers for centuries. Part of the Contested Classics series, this special edition is more than just a horror story—it's a profound reflection on the human condition. Often challenged for its bold exploration of themes that push the boundaries of science, religion, and morality, Frankenstein explores the very nature of life and the ethical ramifications of creation. With in-text annotations, this edition identifies and explores why this book been banned and invites readers to:

  • Explore and Examine: Frankenstein is a book that fearlessly examines what it means to play God.

  • Experience the Darkness: With its intense descriptions of violence, isolation, and consequences of unchecked ambition, Frankenstein confronts the darkest aspects of human nature. This is a novel that doesn't shy away from the grim realities of life.

  • Engage with Timeless Themes: From the blasphemous implications of creating life to the existential questions it raises, Frankenstein has been banned for its exploration of themes that are as relevant today as they were when the novel was first published.

Print ISBN: 9781963549041 * $17.00 USD

Step into a world where beauty reigns supreme and morality is just a shadow. Part of the Contested Classics series, this special edition of Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray is a timeless masterpiece that has captivated readers for over a century—provocative, daring, and undeniably seductive. Banned and censored for its exploration of hedonism and moral decay, this novel defies the constraints of its time, delving into the depths of human desire and the consequences of living a life in pursuit of pleasure.

  • Defies the constraints of its time, delving into the depths of human desire and the consequences of living a life in pursuit of pleasure.

  • Subtle homoerotic undertones and his bold critique of Victorian society make this novel as relevant (and challenged) today.

  • Seen as a direct challenge to the status quo—a sensational work that pushed the boundaries of acceptable literature.

The Picture of Dorian Gray is more than just a book; it’s a journey into the very heart of human nature. Are you ready to face the portrait and discover the truths it reveals?

Print ISBN: 9781963549065 * $17.00 USD

Joseph Conrad takes you on an unforgettable journey up the Congo River, revealing the brutal realities of European imperialism and the fragile boundaries between civilization and savagery. Through the eyes of the novel's protagonist, you'll witness the disturbing treatment of African natives, confront the psychological horrors of power, and grapple with the complex, often controversial themes that have made this novel a lightning rod for discussion. As part of the Contested Classics series, you will discover why Heart of Darkness has been banned for reasons like these:

  • Accusations of Racism: Criticized for its portrayal of African people and cultures, the novel has been labeled as reinforcing colonial stereotypes and dehumanizing entire populations.

  • Graphic Violence: The vivid depictions of brutality, including the harsh treatment of African natives, have been considered too disturbing for some audiences.

  • Cultural Insensitivity: Some argue that the book lacks sensitivity towards African cultures, reducing them to mere backdrops for the European characters' experiences.

Print ISBN: 9781963549089 * $17.00 USD

Welcome The Contested Classics Into Your Classroom and Home

Embrace a journey of exploration and understanding with "The Contested Classics." Through this series, we invite educators, students, and adult literature enthusiasts to engage with classic works in a manner that illuminates their contested past and underscores their timeless value.

Librarians & Teachers: Request a Review Copy by emailing info@broadbookgroup.com