The Day They Came to Arrest the Book Book Summary - The Day They Came to Arrest the Book Book explained in key points

The Day They Came to Arrest the Book summary

Nat Hentoff

Brief summary

The Day They Came to Arrest the Book by Nat Hentoff is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the controversial topic of censorship in schools. It follows the story of a high school English teacher who faces opposition when trying to teach a classic book.

Give Feedback
Topics
Table of Contents

    The Day They Came to Arrest the Book
    Summary of key ideas

    The Controversy Over The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

    In The Day They Came to Arrest the Book by Nat Hentoff, we are transported to George Mason High School, where a heated controversy arises over Mark Twain's The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The story is told from the perspective of Barney Roth, the editor of the school paper, who finds himself embroiled in a battle to protect the freedom to read.

    It all begins when a group of students and parents protest the use of Huckleberry Finn in the school curriculum, claiming that the book is racist, sexist, and offensive. They demand that the book be removed from the school's reading list and library. The school administration is divided, and the issue is brought to a public hearing, sparking intense debates within the school and the local community.

    Barney's Fight for Freedom of Expression

    Barney, a passionate advocate for free speech and freedom of expression, is shocked by the censorship attempts. He believes that students should have the right to read, discuss, and form their own opinions about controversial works of literature. Barney decides to take a stand and fight back against the book's removal, viewing it as an attack on intellectual freedom.

    Using the school paper as his platform, Barney publishes an editorial defending the book's literary merit and addressing the accusations of racism and sexism. He interviews teachers, students, and experts in literature, gathering diverse perspectives on the matter. Barney's efforts to shed light on the situation and raise awareness about censorship are met with both support and opposition.

    The Power of Open Dialogue

    As the controversy intensifies, Barney finds himself facing personal consequences for his outspoken stance. He receives threats, is ostracized by some of his peers, and even faces suspension from school. However, he remains resolute in his belief that open dialogue and critical thinking are essential in addressing contentious issues like censorship and racism.

    Throughout the book, Hentoff emphasizes the importance of intellectual freedom and the dangers of censorship. He shows how the attempt to ban a book can lead to a suppression of ideas and limit students' exposure to diverse perspectives. The novel highlights the value of literature in sparking important discussions about society, history, and human nature.

    The Final Verdict and Lessons Learned

    As the public hearing reaches its climax, Barney and his supporters present a compelling case for keeping The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn in the school curriculum. Ultimately, the school board votes to retain the book, but with a compromise: it will be taught with additional context and accompanied by other texts that provide diverse viewpoints.

    In the end, The Day They Came to Arrest the Book serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect intellectual freedom. It encourages readers to confront challenging ideas, engage in open dialogue, and think critically about the world around them. Through Barney's story, Hentoff demonstrates the enduring importance of literature as a tool for understanding, empathy, and growth.

    Give Feedback
    How do we create content on this page?
    More knowledge in less time
    Read or listen
    Read or listen
    Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
    Find your next read
    Find your next read
    Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
    Shortcasts
    Shortcasts New
    We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.

    What is The Day They Came to Arrest the Book about?

    The Day They Came to Arrest the Book by Nat Hentoff is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the controversial topic of censorship in schools. When a high school principal bans a classic book from the curriculum, it sparks a debate about freedom of speech and the power of literature. The story follows a group of students who take a stand against the decision, leading to a dramatic showdown with the authorities.

    The Day They Came to Arrest the Book Review

    The Day They Came to Arrest the Book (1982) portrays a high school controversy over censorship and intellectual freedom. Here's why this book is worth your time:
    • Unraveling the intricacies of censorship and freedom of expression, it prompts readers to contemplate these crucial societal issues.
    • Through its humorous and thought-provoking narrative, the book skillfully challenges conventional beliefs, sparking critical thinking and lively debates.
    • Its intersection of humor and deep themes ensures an engaging read, blending levity with significant discussions.  

    Who should read The Day They Came to Arrest the Book?

    • Readers who are passionate about freedom of expression and intellectual freedom

    • Individuals who are interested in exploring the complexities of censorship and its impact on society

    • Those who enjoy thought-provoking and socially relevant fiction

    About the Author

    Nat Hentoff was a renowned author and journalist who focused on issues of free speech and civil liberties. Throughout his career, Hentoff wrote extensively on topics such as jazz music, politics, and the First Amendment. He was a regular contributor to publications like The Village Voice and The New Yorker, and authored numerous books, including Free Speech for Me & Not for Thee and Living the Bill of Rights. Hentoff's work continues to be celebrated for its thought-provoking exploration of the fundamental rights and freedoms that shape society.

    Categories with The Day They Came to Arrest the Book

    People ❤️ Blinkist 
    Sven O.

    It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.

    Thi Viet Quynh N.

    Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.

    Jonathan A.

    Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.

    Renee D.

    Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.

    4.7 Stars
    Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
    36 Million
    Downloads on all platforms
    10+ years
    Experience igniting personal growth
    Powerful ideas from top nonfiction

    Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.

    Get started

    The Day They Came to Arrest the Book FAQs 

    What is the main message of The Day They Came to Arrest the Book?

    The main message is about the importance of free speech and challenging censorship.

    How long does it take to read The Day They Came to Arrest the Book?

    The estimated reading time varies. The Blinkist summary can be read quickly.

    Is The Day They Came to Arrest the Book a good book? Is it worth reading?

    The Day They Came to Arrest the Book is a thought-provoking read, highlighting the power of literature and the fight against censorship.

    Who is the author of The Day They Came to Arrest the Book?

    Nat Hentoff is the author of The Day They Came to Arrest the Book.

    What to read after The Day They Came to Arrest the Book?

    If you're wondering what to read next after The Day They Came to Arrest the Book, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu & James A. Robinson
    • The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama
    • The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich August von Hayek
    • Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
    • Manufacturing Consent by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky
    • No Logo by Naomi Klein
    • The Bottom Billion by Paul Collier
    • The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein
    • Brave New War by John Robb
    • Man, the State and War by Kenneth N. Waltz