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On Vox: Forbidden Books


SurelyYoureJokingMrFeynman.PNG
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If I were a teacher, I'd forbid the reading of Surely You're Joking Mr. Feynman! and IWoz: From Computer Geek to Cult Icon.   I'd explain to the kids that the books are forbidden on the grounds that they could give them ideas about breaking the law, sex, lock-picking, and making contraptions with mischievous intent.

Iwoz cover.jpg
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The books are too short.  They're written in simple, clear language.  They're written by deviants who forged their own way.  They could only be disruptive.

And with any luck at all, every curious student would have an unyielding desire to learn more, and they'll devour the books on their own accord.

Could such a reverse-psychology ploy work?  I really don't know.  But it's worth a try, even if the kids see though the guise.

I can't wait until the timing is right to forbid these books from my children.

Originally posted on dblume.vox.com

Tags: books

Comments

 dotgirl on Jun 18th 2007 at 9:56 PM
I love Richard Feynman - have you read his follow up? "What do you care what anyone else thinks?" It's good.

 dblume on Jun 18th 2007 at 10:26 PM
Yes, yes! Both books are sitting next to each other on my shelf, right at this moment. iWoz is next to the bed. These are heroes of mine. They help me keep perspective.

 davidd on Jun 18th 2007 at 10:38 PM
Two, no, three more to the top of my queue. After The Know It All, I place considerable stock in your literary recommendations!

 dblume on Jun 18th 2007 at 10:56 PM
Thank you. Still, I won't take it personally if these books disappoint. These characters could grate on the nerves as easily as inspire. Some of it depends on the perspective from which the reader approaches the book. Maybe start with excepts available online, before you commit. If you enjoy the excepts, you'll probably like the books. Here's an interview with Woz.