Censorship increases among parents in Iceland as literary values clash

Censorship has become a daily occurrence in thousands of Icelandic homes, as parents like Eva Mattadóttir, an author and life coach, alter children’s books to align with their values. Mattadóttir has taken to crossing out sentences from her children’s books, reflecting a growing trend where many parents feel the need to censor the content their children consume.

In a recent discussion, several parents and educators shared their experiences with censorship practices in children’s literature, yielding over fifty responses through social media inquiries. One mother noted her adjustment of the bedtime story “Good Night Einar Áskell,” softening the portrayal of the father’s anger, suggesting he should be proactive instead of merely yelling from the kitchen.

Popular titles like “Einar Áskell,” “Emil in the Soup,” and “Cinderella” have faced scrutiny, alongside others such as “Bóbó Bangsi,” “Lína langsokkur,” and “Dimmalimm.” The question arises: is it necessary or excessive to censor children’s books? How far should such practices go, and what responsibilities do parents have regarding the literary selections for their children?

This phenomenon reflects a broader conversation about the impact of literature on young minds and the extent to which parental values should influence what children read. For further insights into the discussion and various reasons behind the censorship of children’s books, a recent broadcast is available for listening.