Dear Members of the Twain Forum:
        I am working on a presentation about challenges to _Tom Sawyer_ in
libraries and schools. Many folks have defended _Huck Finn_ against
challenges; not nearly as many have defended _Tom Sawyer_, even though it
is also a frequently challenged book.  I wonder why.  I'd also like help
with some related questions:  How often is _Tom Sawyer_ included in high
school or middle school English classes? How often is it included in
college or university literature classes (not counting those exclusively
devoted to Twain)?
        I am going to address these issues (among others):  the racist
portrayal of Injun Joe, Tom as con artist, Tom's treatment of the "new
boy," the treatment of animals, sexism.  All of these and more have been
grounds for challenging the book.  I will appreciate any suggestions.

Tim Hirsch