I read Huckleberry Finn in elementary school. The language and imagery of that book and Finn's Mississippi River adventure have stuck with me throughout the years (as few books read that long ago have).

While I think people need to be sensitive to the negativity that use of the n-word causes today, I don't think that should be the sole reason for banning the book. The language Mark Twain used was true to the time period and helps the reader immerse themself in the story.

If there is that much of an issue over the language, then in addition to reading the book, teachers should encourage open dialogue regarding the controversial parts.

(Mollee Francisco is a staff writer for the Chaska Herald. She can be reached at mfrancisco@swpub.com.)