Atlanta Metro News

By Dave

May 29, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

It said in the news that she didn’t even bother to read the books. How can anyone take her seriously, she is just regurgitating the opinions of someone else and not even thinking for herself. What a waste of money.

By no to censorship

May 29, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

Thank God for sane judges. Get a life woman

By Harvey

May 29, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

I think the judge was right to rule against her. My take on this is, if she think the book teaches witch craft, then do not read it and don’t let your children read it. Why try to put you belief on every body else.

By Lisa

May 29, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Sensorship of the Potter books would have been a very bad thing for Gwinnett County Schools — I was pleased to hear about this ruling and to see the books listed for summer reading on the summer reading list my daughter brought home last week from school. We have enjoyed reading each of the books together (discussing the characters and what plot twists we might expect from the last book). Not once did we discuss how my daughter could become a wizard, forget her foundation of judaism and do dark magic. Imagine that!

By KJ

May 29, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

“Mallory acknowledges she hasn’t read any of the six books in the “Harry Potter” series”

This really tells you all you need to know. …

By Lisa

May 29, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Sensorship of the Potter books would have been a very bad thing for Gwinnett County Schools — I was pleased to hear about this ruling and to see the books listed for summer reading on the summer reading list my daughter brought home last week from school. We have enjoyed reading each of the books together (discussing the characters and what plot twists we might expect from the last book). Not once did we discuss how my daughter could become a wizard, forget her foundation of judaism and do dark magic. Imagine that!

By John N.

May 29, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

The Queen of the Neo Con Freak Out Brigade fails again.

Of course she won’t stop, she believes God has given her a mandate to dictate how we all raise our families.

By John N.

May 29, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

The Queen of the Neo Con Freak Out Brigade fails again.

Of course she won’t stop, she believes God has given her a mandate to dictate how we all raise our families.

By CC

May 29, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

I agree with the ruling. I just want people to know that not all Christians feel the way this mother feels. I am a conservative, evangelical Christian who loves the books and loves the movies. I’m also a teacher, and I want the books to remain available to my students in the school library.

By kay

May 29, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Yep, it’s the right ruling, alright. That lady needs to get a grip, but I think the grip she has on seeing her name in the paper is what keeps her fighting such a stupid fight.

By The Light of the Silvery Moon

May 29, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Yes, the judge was right. No, the books shouldn’t be banned anywhere.

Mallory didn’t even read the books. How exactly does she know what is and isn’t promoted in the books without reading them? What if I decided the Bible promotes Satan? If I hadn’t read the book - well then who could argue with me? Taking that kind of stance in front of a judge will assuredly bring a dismissal or a ruling for the opposing party.

Mallory, go join Sheehan in your crusades for the insane and intolerant. Naturally, you’ll bring the entire world to it’s collective senses…or it’s knees.

Not everyone believes as you do.

By Elmo

May 29, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

I believe in free speech and welcome the ruling. It is incumbent upon the individual parent to decide whether this book or the movies are suitable for their children. I will state that I’m becoming increasingly concerned about the violence and the evil in the books and movies - I would not allow my children to read or view this.I don’t need a judge or busy body to tell me that !

By RL

May 29, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

At least the judge understands that she doesn’t have the right to censor what other people want to read. She’s never even read any of the books! How can she form an “educated” opinion on something she’s never read, and relies instead on the “testimony” from other people and websites?? I find this comment of hers ludicrous: that she has not read the book series partially because “they’re really very long and I have four kids. I’ve put a lot of work into what I’ve studied and read. I think it would be hypocritical for me to read all the books, honestly.” (Source: Gwinnett Daily Post.com, 04/19/06.) What’s hypocritical is the fact that she’s judging something she has never personally read!!

By cfalways

May 29, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

I’m also glad that the judge ruled against her. Just because SHE wanted the books removed from the bookshelves doesn’t mean that everyone wants them removed. If she doesn’t want her children reading these books then she needs to do what is neccessary to prevent her children from reading them. It’s not fair to everyone else that like Harry Potter (and actually read them) to be subject to her opinions and her parenting (both for children and adults). If she doesn’t want her children reading these books then she needs to keep her parenting and her opinions to herself and her children. Not everyone elses.

By david corr

May 29, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Great ruling. This lady needs to consider a move to afghanistan where she can join the Taliban in her anti-liberty censorship crusade. This is America and Censorship is anti-american.

By Dave

May 29, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

A HUGE AHA moment just came to me. If she does not read this book for herself, I wonder if she actually read the Bible?

So many of the passages in the bible get horribly distorted by the pastors who go much further than interpreting and most appear to be re-writing the Bible to fit their distorted beliefs.

By Fulton County Mom

May 29, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

It is my understanding that Ms. Mallory does not have a degree in English Literature or Education. Therefore, I find that her ablity to determine what is proper reading for children or age appropriate to be in question. As a parent she certainly has every right (and indeed should) to censor what her own children are exposed too.

I think that we can presume that along with not reading the books, Ms. Mallory does not have a degree in paranormal activity or the occult. Again, I find her to be less than adequate to judges these books as being lessons in those subjects.

As a reader (many times over) of the series, I can tell you that I have NEVER found anything in them that would lead me to believe that I should be lighting fires during the Equinox.

I would say that Nora Roberts’ books are much more likely to give a glimpse of the Wiccan world than JK Rowling. I would not recommend young people reading Ms. Roberts’ books due to other Adult content though!

If Ms. Mallory could produce even one person to support her claim that would induce me to consider her claims. Much like watching Pirates of the Carribean incourged my children to pretend to be pirates, Cindrella to be princesses, or Nemo to be fish at the pool, I can say that Harry Potter has encouraged my children to be Hogwarts students. Ms. Mallory would you suggest we ban those other stories too?

Until the next time that she poses the case, I am glad to see that the judge has “Mischief Managed!”

By Wendy

May 29, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Ah, lets see, myself and my children have read all of the HP books and seen all of the movies thus far. I don’t see any of us practicing witch craft, casting spells, or turning people into frogs. This woman is an idiot and her children will grow up to be idiots as well. Please for teh love of God, focus your energy on issues that are much more important thana stupid book. If she doesnt like the books, put your children in a private school or home school them.

By Maverick

May 29, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

This lady has no clue what she is doing to her husband and children. She is on a loosing battle and an endless war in getting a book banned, that I may add, has not even read. She needs to give up this fight before her husband leaves her and other kids retaliate against her children for trying to get this book banned. If she has read the bible through, she would know that it�s filled with not only violence, but sex, drinking and prostitution, but other things as well.

By Col. Ed McCauley

May 29, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

My sons attended a �Christian school� until they went to (public) middle school. About two �Harry Potter� books ago, they both brought home a flyer they had been given in class. The flyer �warned� parents that the Harry Potter books promoted bad morals, witchcraft and un-Christian attitudes. Pretty much what Laura Mallory has been saying.

Laura Mallory had nothing to do with these flyers, though. They had been provided to the school (and, I don�t doubt, many other Christian schools) by Beka Books. Beka is a publishing house that markets �Christian-friendly� textbooks — and �appropriate� fiction for Christian-school children. I suspected at the time that the success of �Harry Potter� might be eating into their sales.

There are people out there who feel the same about the �Harry Potter� books as Mrs. Mallory does, whether they want the books removed from public schools or not. And there are some people who have a financial interest in poking a stick in J.K. Rowling�s wheels.

By William

May 29, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

ABBRA KADABBRA “POOF” Maybe she will disappear now

By Potter Fan

May 29, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

I must say the lady provided a lot of entertainment for those of us with enough intelligence to read the Potter books and decide for ourselves that there is indeed nothing wrong with them and they they do not promote witchcraft and/or wizzardary.

She has probably boosted the sales of Potter Books in metro Atlanta andin other regions where her antics were publicized.

Thank goodness for sane judges.

By The Light of the Silvery Moon

May 29, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

And another thing: what exactly DOES the Bible promote? Let’s see, Jesus turned water into wine, made the lame walk, turned a few fishes and loaves into a smorgasbord, walked on water, and countless other things. Interesting. So someone please tell me the difference (from a strictly literary standpoint) between the Bible and Harry Potter. Leave religion and beliefs out of it for a sec - and tell me the difference. Hmm?

By tom

May 29, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

the loon has every right to censor/control the books her kids read but that is where it stops. she cannot determine what is right for the rest of us. this judge has made the right call. if she chooses to proceed in federal court she should be held liable for all cost incurred by the courts, when she loses.

By hmr

May 29, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Wow! Another victory for us Potterheads. But really, are we surprised? How does she expect anyone to take her seriously when she won’t even conduct proper research (i.e. actually reading the books) to make her case. Nothing but a waste of everyones’ time and taxpayers money, although it does give us Potter fans something great to talk about. No wonder the Washington Post named her the 2006 Idiot of the Year.

By Gwinnett Cty Mom

May 29, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Why is she so intent on being the moral compass for my children?

By Marmy

May 29, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

I have enjoyed every page of the Harry Potter books. I am not or have I ever been into witchcraft, but I do enjoy magical fiction! If Mrs. Mallory doesn’t want her children to read the books that is her right.It scares me to think that someone would try to alter our freedoms(I recall a certain someone ordering a book burning during WWII)

By Michelle

May 29, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Like many others here I agree that Ms. Mallory should only censor what her own children read and not what is available to other students.

By Joan's

May 29, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Dear Laura Mallory, Can you please reference/cite one item that has been reported in the press for the last, oh I don’t know, 100 years, and tell me when did any reporter report anything that referenced a witch or any kind of scorcery? How about one with a child turning toads into people? Anything? No, I thought not.
So now is the time to go home with your tail between your legs. You have lost your appeal on every level, and cost the State of Georgia alot of money, not to mention the embarassment of your entire family.
Several people have suggested you take your children out of public schools and either home school them, or put them in Private schools, where they wil be taught that creativity and fantasy are the works of the devil. But, whatever you do, please do not attempt to open your children’s minds, or discuss any sort of fantasy with them, and Never, ever, ever take them to Disneyland/world. That is a place of fantasy you know. Furthermore, Ms. Mallory, do yourself a favor. READ THE POTTER BOOKS..OPEN YOUR MIND. A closed mind is a terrible thing. Love, The ENTIRE state of Georgia

By deb

May 29, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

I think the judge should impose a fine on her for wasting the court’s time, again, and sentence her to read and write book reports on the entire series. Does anyone know for sure that she can read?

By NH

May 29, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

How about focus is given to something more important like the governance of our country and participation in the democratic process? She is missing the big picture and focusing on a fairytale.

By Chris

May 29, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

GET A LIFE!!! My gosh! Who cares? There are a lot more other things to worry about like gangs, drugs, etc. People like that are pathetic. It’s just a book.

By DudeMan

May 29, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

There needs to be a law in place that holds people that bring frivalous lawsuits accountable for court costs, etc. instead of taxpayers being held accountable for the costs. Now she’s thinking involving the Federal Courts….at our expense!

By lbb

May 29, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Now she is considering filing a federal lawsuit? Why is she allowed to continually waste court time and taxpayer money on this ignorant act of censorship?!! I think she should be fined.

By Nicole

May 29, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Ok, Lets stop the Madness!!!!! Let�s get a dang, grip on reality… �Harry Potter� books bring valuable lessons to the kids and adults that read them. Has she even read any of the books???? This is just another case of some one with way to much time on her hands and has created her own band-wagon to jump on. I have taken the time to actually read all the �Potter� Books, and not only are they an out standing and imaginative read, but there are lessons to be learned about friendship, loyalty, honor, courage and so much more. Honestly, there are bigger problems in Gwinnett County they need to be focused on in it communities, such as; the high gang activity, home invasions. Even bigger issues exist as a whole that far and beyond over shadow “Harry Potter” books and weather or not a child should read them; what about the children being killed, raped, molested and abused, or the troops over in Iraq that are dying every day and the possible hundreds that won’t ever see U.S. soil or family again???? Frankly, the issue of the books and what child if any should read them should be left up to the individual parents and/or guardian. It is our right and citizens and human beings to make our own decisions and not some woman who obviously has too much time on her hands�.

By Publius

May 29, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

I think the woman proposing the ban is a witch. She needs to read the Bill of Rights. I can practice witchcraft and promote it. She doesn’t have the right to deny this.

By Nicole

May 29, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Ok, Lets stop the Madness!!!!! Let�s get a dang, grip on reality… �Harry Potter� books bring valuable lessons to the kids and adults that read them. Has she even read any of the books???? This is just another case of some one with way to much time on her hands and has created her own band-wagon to jump on. I have taken the time to actually read all the �Potter� Books, and not only are they an out standing and imaginative read, but there are lessons to be learned about friendship, loyalty, honor, courage and so much more. Honestly, there are bigger problems in Gwinnett County they need to be focused on in it communities, such as; the high gang activity, home invasions. Even bigger issues exist as a whole that far and beyond over shadow “Harry Potter” books and weather or not a child should read them; what about the children being killed, raped, molested and abused, or the troops over in Iraq that are dying every day and the possible hundreds that won’t ever see U.S. soil or family again???? Frankly, the issue of the books and what child if any should read them should be left up to the individual parents and/or guardian. It is our right and citizens and human beings to make our own decisions and not some woman who obviously has too much time on her hands�.

By Nicole

May 29, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Ok, Lets stop the Madness!!!!! Let�s get a dang, grip on reality… �Harry Potter� books bring valuable lessons to the kids and adults that read them. Has she even read any of the books???? This is just another case of some one with way to much time on her hands and has created her own band-wagon to jump on. I have taken the time to actually read all the �Potter� Books, and not only are they an out standing and imaginative read, but there are lessons to be learned about friendship, loyalty, honor, courage and so much more. Honestly, there are bigger problems in Gwinnett County they need to be focused on in it communities, such as; the high gang activity, home invasions. Even bigger issues exist as a whole that far and beyond over shadow “Harry Potter” books and weather or not a child should read them; what about the children being killed, raped, molested and abused, or the troops over in Iraq that are dying every day and the possible hundreds that won’t ever see U.S. soil or family again???? Frankly, the issue of the books and what child if any should read them should be left up to the individual parents and/or guardian. It is our right and citizens and human beings to make our own decisions and not some woman who obviously has too much time on her hands�.

By Katie

May 29, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

I don’t think it’s up to Laura Mallory to decide what others read or don’t read. What is she, the self entitled morality police? She can go to hell, I couldn’t care less for her. I feel sorry for her children, being deprived of perfectly good books.

By DJ

May 29, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

wow… not one single comment in support of this anti-intellectual fund-a-mentalist christer. so maybe there’s hope?! perhaps now she’ll shut her pie-hole and worry about raising her own children instead of worring about ours. “to thine own self be true” lady. take care of your family. leave mine alone.

By Chris

May 29, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Her whole argument rates a big ol’ zero on my Give-a-crap-ometer. This issue has come up time and time again and it’s ended pretty much the same way every time. You can’t force a blanket censorship policy based solely on your personal hangups. IT DOESN’T WORK THAT WAY. You are NOT my keeper and you are most certainly NOT going to tell my how to raise my kids, not that I even have any yet.

Best policy ever for this kind of thing:

Don’t like it? Don’t read it.

Don’t want your kids to read it? Don’t let them.

You can’t force your views on everyone else.

By Camille

May 29, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Like most people, I disagree with Ms. Mallory’s crusade and I feel that she needs some sort of job or hobby that would keep her busy and not trying to censor Gwinnett County public school libraries. The one thing that I wanted to add to the discussion is that in all reality, the fight that Ms. Mallory is having is a little misguided. The issue is that she had these books on a list of books that her children were not supposed to be able to check out from their school library. Some kind of way, they were able to check them out anyway. What she should be doing is trying to figure out how that happened, and see to it that it doesn’t happen again. In other words, she should be fighting with her particular school (or district) in making sure that children are not allowed to check out any of the books that the parents have specified. A decent computer book check-out application in each school library would be able to successfully accomplish this.

By Dave

May 29, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Why doesn’t she home school her kids if they need that much protection from the rest of us maybe that is best for them. I guess the Wizard of OZ might get that XXX rating from her.

By Rellis

May 29, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

In case Ms. Mallory has forgotten, this is still the United States of America where we have separation of church and state and freedom of religion. She can make what ever choice she wants for herself and her family and so can the rest of us, all by ourselves without her shoving it down our throats. Sounds like she hasn’t read the Bill of Rights and the Constitution along with Harry Potter.

By James B. Dawson

May 29, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Ummmm! What’s wrong with a little witchcraft among friends any way? This women should be made to repay every dime this foolishness has cost the taxpayers.

By JJ

May 29, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

I like Deb’s idea. Make the woman actually read the entire series, and write a report on each and every one!!!

By Chris

May 29, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness this woman lost

By bdiddy

May 29, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

How much of our tax dollars has this “concerned citizen” wasted on this frivilous endeavor? I wish someone could perform some magic to replace the money, time, and energy this person selfishly, blindly, unnecessarily spent on her “crusade.”

By Col. Ed McCauley

May 29, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Apparently, Mrs. Mallory actually believes that children can learn to do witchcraft from reading the ‘Harry Potter’ books:

‘They don’t want the Easter Bunny’s power,’ Mallory said. ‘The children in our generation want Harry’s power, and they’re getting it.’

By Nina

May 29, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Shouldn’t her time be better spent sheltering her own children? And how can anyone take her seriously if she hasn’t even read the books?

By S. M. W.

May 29, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

This is ridiculous.

I think toilet paper promotes wiping and books promote reading, but I certainly hope her and her children are not soft minded enough to think fictional books about wizards promote witchcraft.

Because a thing exists and a certain development results in collaboration with it does not prove a causal relationship. A school is vandalized does not mean the school promotes vandalism.

By Susie

May 29, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

I agree with this mother and believe the books should be removed.

By Susie

May 29, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

I agree with this mother and believe the books should be removed.

By nan

May 29, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

If Ms. Mallory is ever successful in removing a book series from school libraries, then we might as well go ahead and just close all GCPS media centers since any book deemed objectionable by a parent will have to b e removed.

By harold

May 29, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

�They don�t want the Easter Bunny�s power,� Mallory said.

Who wouldn’t want to sheet chocolate eggs?

By Doug

May 29, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

They should start making her pay court cost for all of these frivolous legal actions.

By harold

May 29, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

oh sure susie we belive you. troll.

By Katie

May 29, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Judge Wapner, are you serious??? This suit screams frivolous. No book should be banned and no book should be taken to court. There should be laws against frivolous law suits. There are way too many people out there abusing our court system at the expense of tax payers. We should have more of a say where our tax dollars go and this is one case that shouldn’t even have gone as far as it did. I’m not sure about fining her though. I think the public seeing her as a moron is punishment enough.

By haorld

May 29, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

who doesnt want the easter bunny’s power? just imagine if you could sheet chocolate eggs!!!!

By Rellis

May 29, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Then you are a ding-bat idiot as well that should home school your children.

By CJ

May 29, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

This woman should be happy that kids are reading, period. Would she rather they sit in front of the TV and watch cartoons or play video games? Reading is reading, and it builds learning ability and language skills. She needs to calm it down.

By Jesus

May 29, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

For Susie: STFU

By Me, Myself and I

May 29, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

I just can’t understand why this woman thnks she had the legal right to demand what she’s demanding. I don’t think anything I’m saying hasn’t already been said in the posts above, but come on! Why doesn’t she just hold a book-burning party and throw in everything Shakespeare ever wrote because you know in his days, men portrayed the female characters in his plays. Doesn’t that mean Shakespeare promotes homosexuality, crossdreassing, transvestites and general immorality?

What an idiot! My only regret, besides the obvious, is that this psycho-pseudo-wannabe-moral compass has cost the Gwinnett taxpayers a boatload of money. If she takes this to the Supreme Court, I hope the justices throw her in federal prison for wasting taxpayers money.

By S. M. W.

May 29, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

This is ridiculous.

I hope toilet paper promotes wiping and books promote reading, but I certainly hope her and her children are not soft minded enough to think fictional books about wizards promote witchcraft.

Because a thing exists and a certain development results in collaboration with it does not prove a causal relationship. A school is vandalized does not mean the school promotes vandalism.

Besides which she’s asking a judge to rule against a particular religious belief. Although we are a nation under God we are by law a religiously tolerant people. It would be against the first amendment [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UnitedStatesBillofRights] for the judge to agree.

This sounds like a personal vendetta for a personal issue rather than a legitimate concern for her country or community’s literature. The more options opened to us the more reinforced should our beliefs be. If this is not the case it is the rectitude of those beliefs (or our own ability to use logic and fact) and not the challengers we should find issue with.

By rick

May 29, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Harry Potter books lead children down a road leading to hell.

Hell = infinite torture for all eternity. Let that sink in: infintite (severity) torture, eternal (duration) torture.

Ms Mallory’s actions are completely rational given her Christian frame of reference. She is trying to save children from the most horrible outcome possible.

Her actions should not be questioned. IMO it is her Christian belief that should be inspected. She believes in a barbaric god created by primitive man. Please read the old testament for the actions of the genocidal maniac Christians call god - the one who putatively created the place called hell, btw.

Hopefully, we as a society will soon reach a point where we do without the nonsense of all revealed religions.

By Twiga

May 29, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

I agree with all the above statements. The fact that this woman hasn’t even bothered to read the books, but is still passing a judgement on it is pathetic. Frankly, the fact that she had time to read a bunch of (extremely biased) articles about the books, but not the books themselves speaks volumes. I truly pity her poor children and hope that when they are old enough to be on their own, they will take the time to formulate their own opinions on the books and see how misguided their mother was.

I too have read all six books multiple times and have never had an inkling to actually practice witchcraft. I wonder if she even knows that JK herself is a Christian and has said those teachings have influenced the books and is a large theme of them. Would that make the books “ok” then?

It really is a shame. If she had bothered to read the books, I could respect her fight alot more. At least it would have been an educated fight and while I would have disagreed with her, I would have respected her right to the opinion more.

By Heard it here first

May 29, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Susie: You need to pull your head outta the Bible and breathe some oxygen honey. Your not thinking clearly.

By Keith

May 29, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Thank the Lord! She should jump on her broom stick and fly away now.

By RaisinBran

May 29, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

My kids have been reading the Harry Potter series from day one and I have yet to see them conjur up a witch, speak in tongues or turn the next door neighbor into a toad.

Laura Mallory needs to hop on her broomstick and fly home… and maybe flying into a brick wall on the way there might knock some sense into her.

By hmmmmmm

May 29, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Laura Mallory…’You’re banned’..

By Dave

May 29, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Kudos to the judge in this case. For a minute there I almost forgot I was in Georgia.

By Connie

May 29, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Thanks to the lady wjho wanted to ban them in Cobb county a few years ago, I started reading the Harry Potter books. The Harry Potter books are WONDERFUL!!!! And I am eagerly awaiting book #7! People like this miguided woman have given the Pooert books TONS of free publicity, especially in the early days. All of the Pooert fans thank you for that!!!

By Nina

May 29, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Has she tried to ban the Chronicals of Narnia as well? Or is that acceptable because of the subtle ties to the Bible? There is a witch and plenty of violence in that book too. BAN IT! QUICK!

By SCD

May 29, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I guess, fiction books about characters who love Jesus and pray to him should also be introduced to the schools too. Likewise, that would not force children to believe in Jesus. :)

By David

May 29, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Another thing. Ms Mallory and you other Religious numbnuts. STOP WASTING MY TAX PAYING DOLLARS ON CRAP LIKE THIS!!!!!!!!

By GenXDen

May 29, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

I didn’t read ALL the comments, but I was wondering if anyone posed the question as to whether or not this woman can be sued for wasting taxpayer’s money! That would serve her right! Just a silly thought. I know she didn’t actually read the books so I know she hasn’t a clue as to what she’s even fighting against. I’m really glad to see that most people think that she is wrong!

By MD native

May 29, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

If your faith is so weak that a fictional wizard can shake or shape it, you’ve serious problems.

Just another person who will make Georgia the laughing stock of the nation. If you don’t like the books, don’t buy them and don’t read them. It’s that simple. As for the rest of us, how about you let us make our own decisions?

What a maroon…..

By gman

May 29, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Here’s my two cents…

Every time she goes to court over this, she wastes taxpayer money. I think she owes some money for the court costs over this.

By Tammy

May 29, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

I could respect the woman’s opinion to try and protect children if had she actually read the books. But to crusade against something you’re ignorant of is ridiculous.

And if she’d read them, she’d realize - as do many Christian readers of the series - that the story is an allegory for the story of Jesus Christ, and that J.K. Rowling dressed up her story in a fairy tale that would appeal to those who need to hear her message. The Harry Potter story teaches children that love will get us through, that our choices matter, and that evil can be overcome. It’s a shame this woman doesn’t allow her children such a vivid, well-written way to understand heavy issues.

By Thomas

May 29, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Well I hope she never goes to the Magic Kingdom…. gheezz who knows what evil stuff they do there.

By Can't you see?

May 29, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Can’t you people see? She is just doing this for the publicity. I agree with the majority of you in that this woman needs to pay the court costs herself. She just wants to see herself on the TV and have everybody talking about her.

By Stephanie

May 29, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

GET A LIFE! GET A LIFE!GET A LIFE!GET A LIFE! This all I can say. There are so many other battles that can be fought, oppose to some Harry Potter books. She is the one performing witchcraft.

By OnceMightyThor

May 29, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Hey, Maybe the AJC should send her this blog to see how her one person crusade is so distorted. Of course, she probably wouldn’t read it either…

By Cindymsm

May 29, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Hooray for a judge with some sense. I think we can all agree that too much time and energy have been wasted covering this story. She’s a narrow-minded zealot who won’t even take the time to read the books she is opposed to. I feel sorry for her kids.

By agable

May 29, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Thank you for having the courage to speak out against the teachings of witchcraft as set forth in the Harry Potter books. I admire your convictions and following through with them in spite of the criticism you’ve received. I wholeheartedly agree with your stand against these books. Again, Thank you.

By robo

May 29, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

…. just imagine having her as your mom….

By robo

May 29, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

…. just imagine having her as your mom….

By SouthernYankee

May 29, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

Ms Mallory if, as you proclaim, have never read the Harry Potter books, have you read the Bible? Incest, witchcraft, demons, w******* abound within its pages. Please read it for yourself!

To be a Christian is to be “Christ like”…no conservative…whatever that means. Christ hung out with w******* and forgave a murderer! He died to fulfill a prophecy and to wash away mans sins. He was never conservative and I’m pretty darn glad he wasn’t fanatical, judgemental, or ignorant! If he were this sinner would have been doomed! Instead he blessed with the gift of books. They allow me to escape to any land I want to visit, learn about people and places I may never see, and enjoy the wonders of being a child as I watch our world being destroyed by those that profess to love my God who is totally capable of taking care of things. I will keep you prayer as I anxiously await the release of Ms Rowlings latest efforts along with millions of others!

By Mary

May 29, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

So, if I feel that Dr. Seuss books are nonsensical and bad for children because they teach children words that are not really part of our language, does that give me the right to dictate what every other child in my community should or should not read (I really don’t feel that way about Dr. Seuss)? If this woman doesn’t want her own kids reading Harry Potter, that’s fine, but to demand that no other child have access to it from their schools or libraries is insane. This woman is an idiot. I used to live in Gwinnett County, and luckily I got away from these narrowminded right wing bible thumpers and moved back up north where I don’t have to listen to uneducated morons shoving the bible down my throat and forming opinions on matters they know nothing about. Read the books before you pass judgement.

By Nina

May 29, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Agable, I don’t agree, but I respect your opinion…if and only IF you bothered to read the books. Please say you have.

By random guy

May 29, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

O.K. so let me get this staright…you haven’t read the books, yet you claim that they encourage witchcraft and Wicca? Seems to me that you are wont to judge a book by it’s cover. You are never going to win, get over it. Quit trying to tell everyone how to think!

By random guy

May 29, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

O.K. so let me get this staright…you haven’t read the books, yet you claim that they encourage witchcraft and Wicca? Seems to me that you are wont to judge a book by it’s cover. You are never going to win, get over it. Quit trying to tell everyone how to think!

By Rawhide

May 29, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

As an American and a Christian, I have to say I’m happy to see the court came to the decision that they came to.

I respect the fact that this mother has chosen to with-hold this book from her children, however other parents must be given the same freedoms to make these decision for their children.

I would never have ANYONE tell me what my kids can and cannot read, so I would not be a party in doing the same toward others.

This is but another example of my fellow Christians trying to have the government or the courts introduce their believes into the school system. they do so under the disguise of protecting THEIR children, however it is really to inflict their belifs upon OTHER people children as they are captive audiences in the public school systems.

I have seen too many other-wise well-meaning Christians fall under the belief that if they can keep others from doing what THEY don’t want them to do, then somehow they have done their Christian duty, (beer sales on Sunday’s, etc.).

Nothing could be further from the truth. I have never once met anyone who converted to Christianity because they were forced NOT do do as they wanted to do.

Allow all books to be availbale,….I will advise and consent my children in what I feel is apropriate to read and respect other parents to do so with their children based upon their convictions.

By nick

May 29, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

I suspect the reason why Ms. Mallory never read these books is because she doesn’t know how to read. Ignorance is truly bliss!

By library dragon

May 29, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

The selection policy at my private school states that anyone wishing to have a book reconsidered by the library committee must first read the book and cite passages which they find inappropriate before any action will be taken. It further states that no book shall be removed from the shelf simply because it has been called into question. The courts should never have been involved in this at all because the woman never read the book. That should have been the end of it right there. Whomever let it get this far is an idiot (or a community of idiots). She owes the citizens of this state an apology and reimbursment.

By hmr

May 29, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

I agree with GenXDen, maybe some of us fans should come together and sue her for promoting blatant ignorance!! Maybe that will get her to stop!

By Scott

May 29, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

I bet she does not have a job. She has wayyyyy tooooo much time on her hands.

By Ed M

May 29, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Maybe Harry Potter can turn Ms. Mallory into a toad. More realistically, maybe she will go visit the Creation Museum and start arguing that her school must teach that the world is only 6,000 year old.

By The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe

May 29, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

I wonder how she feels about the The Chronicles of Narnia series written by C. S. Lewis? The series contains many allusions to traditional Christian ideas, presented in a format designed to make them easily accessible to younger readers. Oh yeah, is also contains magic and witchcraft.

By whats next?

May 29, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Merely an attempt to gain publicity. Hey everybody, look at me! I’m in the news! Step 1 complete.

Step 2—Run for political office as a Republican.

By Willie

May 29, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

I am glad Harry won. I read the books, they are fun reading. Heck, I am 66 years old. I enjoyed them. ( I don’t do movies ). My grand kids love the books, They don’t read too much else. They loved the movies. The lady fussing about all this is just another nut, wanting to save the rest of us. I hope she was having to spend her own money for the lawyers.

By Ed M

May 29, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

I agree it is preposterous that this woman has not even read the book. However, even if she had, it should make no difference. It is not her business to tell all the other parents what their children can or cannot read. Incidentally, if Ms. Mallory has bothered to read the whole Bible, she will find that it is filled with more depravity—murder, genocide, incest, rape, torture, etc.—than just about anything that might be found in the adult section of her local library.

By Laura Mallory

May 29, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

I am such a moron. I’m sorry I have put all of you through this.

I promise I will read all of the books and then I will go back to the courts and try to get the books removed again from the schools.

By Sam I Am

May 29, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

SCD, how do you know that public school libraries do not have books that show characters who love and pray to Jesus? Have you even been to a public school library lately, and did you read all the books in them?

By Erin

May 29, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

It drives me crazy that the woman hasnt read the books. If she read them - she would see how harmless they are….The kids say silly made up magic words and eat magic candy…..

Lets think of other magic: 1) The Little Mermaid - goes to the sea witch for legs

2) Cinderella has her coach and dress provided to her by a fairy

3) Pinocchio gets turned into a boy by a fairy with a magic wand

4) Dorothy and Glenda the Good Witch go toe to toe with the Wicked Witch of the West…There is a talking magical scare crow and tin man, and magic shoes

Harry Potter has nothing more ‘evil’ in it than these other fairy tales….

And for that matter - far LESS scary then the Grimms or Anderson fairy tales. Or the Greek myths that you are forced to study in school. Heck, those have Pagan gods and goddesses….I cant believe she isnt trying to get those books banned.

Or maybe she thinks the great artists like Da Vinci, or Michaelangelo banned - they painted lots of pictures of the greek gods and their magic feats….

Why is this woman so scared of MAKE BELIEVE ?

By comp133xi7y

May 29, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

There is no more compelling evidence that reading Harry Potter does not lead one down the road to magical powers than the fact that the combined disgust that millions of Potter fans feel for this fool of a woman has not turned her into a newt.

By Dee

May 29, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

When I hear about someone who has gotten so obsessed over what a fictional story will ‘teach’ someone, very similar to the reactions to The Da Vinci Code, it makes me think that their own beliefs are so shallow, they actually fear losing those beliefs. If one’s beliefs are strong, then no books - no matter the subject matter - is going to deteriorate that belief. How sad for Ms. Mallory that her own beliefs are that shallow.

I went to high school in the late ’60s. We studied about Merlin and the Knights of the Round Table, and were subjected to shows like I Dream of Jeannie and Bewitched - all things to do with magic. As high school girls, we even took out books on witchcraft and tried to cast spells - ones like trying to see if we could make a boy like us. None of this ever affected us in any serious or permanent way. It was just fun imagination.

Ms. Mallory - please - allow your children to have an imagination. Put your energy to something important - like making sure our children all get a good education and good health care.

Stop wasting your time, the time of the court system and our taxpayers dollars!

By Jeffrey

May 29, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

I bet she doesn’t read the paper or this blog either. She boils my blood. Imagine what she could have done with all the time she has spent on this. Her waste of time is a sin and if the religious leaders she follows don’t think this foolishness is a sin then shame on them. I only hope she reads every vitriolic line about herself and gets a life.

By gatiggermom

May 29, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

So sad that this woman is criticized for standing up for her beliefs. Many spout off about separation of church and state, but what happens when your child is given an assignment to read a book that goes against your religious principles? This happened to us when our son was a senior in high school and was assigned to read the HP book - the Sorcerer’s Stone. (I thought these HP books were for elementary - middle school and NOT HS.) When we contacted the teacher to explain this was unacceptable, she gave us a hard time and only after much debate did she finally concede to assign another book. So, don’t tell me to simply not allow my child to read certain books. If the school assigns them, many parents just go along to get along, even if it violates their beliefs. Yes, I know life isn’t fair - but if my beliefs extend to avoiding witchcraft and sorcery, as is taught in the Bible, why should I have to fight the school system in order to stand firm in what I believe? We weren’t asking the teacher to exempt our child from the reading assignment - it was the book assigned that we had a problem with. Yet, because she obviously thought she knew what was best for our kid, she was adamant at first and lead us to believe the final grade would be affected by not reading the assigned book. This gave her unfair leverage and I guess she was surprised when we didn’t acquiesce to her demand.
The world is a mess today and much of it may be attributed to ideas of diversity, tolerace and acceptace of things that go against the teachings of scripture. While I don’t expect non-christians to understand, it is difficult to comprehend that those calling themselves christian either can’t or won’t stand firm for what is good and true. However, the Bible teaches that the path to the kingdom is a narrow one and some find it too difficult to navigate, choosing instead to join those on the broad path because that is the path of least resistance. Least anyone think I’m saying my life is perfect or that I’m a goody-two-shoes, just let me say that it is a struggle to stay on that narrow path. It is very difficult to keep to what you know is right when it would be simpler to just go along with everybody else. But, to quote something I heard many years back, “I’d rather put up with a few things now than deal with God later.”
Personally, I commend Mrs. Mallory - she had the guts to fight for what she believed to be right. Witchcraft and sorcery are strictly forbidden and she simply wanted to protect her children from an ungodly influence. As parents, that’s our job. Good luck to you Mrs. Mallory.

By techaholic

May 29, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

The Harry Potter books have been entertaining for young and old. The interest in reading because of these books is unbelievable.

I know adults who didn’t read much who picked up the lst book and haven’t looked back.

By the way, no adult or child I know has turned to the occult! This woman is a joke.

By varodan

May 29, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

This woman must be imposing so many restrictions on her own kids that they will grow up to become sheltered, uninformed adolescents. Poor kids!

By Daryl-Atlanta

May 29, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Darrin Stephens just called to say he�d read online about the judge�s decision and reports that Samantha, Endora, Aunt Clara, Esmeralda, Tabitha and Dr. Bombay couldn�t be happier. On the down side, Darrin says that Gladys Kravitz is having a big hissy-fit and is ready to cancel her planned outing to Gwinnett Mall in protest.

By JSparrow

May 29, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

phhh Right ruling. This lady needs too just go home, sit back and grab her good book and read about parting oceans, healing people, bring on plagues, smoke and lightning etc.. and put this fight about magic and stuff behind her�Hey! Wait ah second here�.

By Katiepie

May 29, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Hey, Laura - your 15 minutes of “fame” are up. I don’t think you’ll get a book deal, movie rights, a guest spot on the View, Letterman, or Leno. I don’t see a People interview on the horizon. Face it, you’re really not that interesting, just a little crazy and a huge embarrassement to your family and the citizens of Gwinnett County. I should sue you for gross stupidity.

By Ed M

May 29, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

gatiggermom, your Bible, like the Harry Potter books, is a book of wonderous fiction and magic. Enjoy the Bible but don’t try to impose it on everyone else.

You say your son was a senior in HS, meaning he was 17 or 18, and you still were telling him what he could read? It seems you are committed to maintaining ignorance as a family trait.

By Lisa B.

May 29, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

It is up to the woman to decide what her own children will or will not read. It is up to me to make those decisions for my own child. I have no problem whatsoever forbidding my son to do things that his friends and classmates are allowed to do. For example, video games are restricted to a couple of hours a week in my house. However, I would never try to make daily video game playing illegal!

The lawsuit was ridiculous and a waste of time and money.

By librarylady

May 29, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

I’m so happy the judge put an end to this nonsense. If she files in federal court, I hope the judge orders her pay punitive damages and all court costs for wasting taxpayer dollars over this charade. It’s one thing to stand up for your beliefs. However, Ms. Mallory does not garner any symphathy from me on this. She didn’t even read the book for starters. Besides, one would think after 3 times of being told “no” (Gwinnett County School Board, GA DOE and Gwinnett Court), she should have the smarts to drop it.
Teach your children the difference between fact and fiction. And to gatiggermom - shame on the teacher who gave you such a hard time over an alternate selection for the book report.

By Rawhide

May 29, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

GATIGGERMOM - With all due respect, ma’am,…….can you please point out to me where in the Bible, Christ commands us to go forth into the world and petition the government and the courts to force other people to stop doing things we disagree with????

Where does it state in the Bible that we are to be the world’s parents and inflict our beliefs on other children, regardless of what THEIR parents believe in????

Honestly, we have got to stop being a bunch of Don Quixotes out chasing wind mills on witch hunts of our own.

Stop trying to extenguish darkness and simply hold the light.

By Ed M

May 29, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Is that comment about banning the Potter books and their “followers” from society real? I guess someone has never heard of freedom of speech or separation of Church and State.

By Matthew At The SLC

May 29, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

You know what’s worse than this idiotic lady wasting our tax money in a crusade to make her idea of morals into law: the ideological idiots who paint her with the brush of neo con, fascist, right winger, blah, blah, blah. This lady is the same as Cindy Sheehan besmirching the death of her son (who, by the way, was a volunteer in the military, as are ALL members of the military) because she had to blame someone for her son’s decision to voluteer for a dangerous job. This lady is the same as Josh Hancock’s idiot father who is suing everyone in St. Louis for his son’s idiot decision to drive drunk for like the 19th time, only this time, he died because of it (thank God no one else was killed).

You know what binds all of these people together? Not ideologies, not politics, not death, not religion. Stupidity. Just plain stupidity.

By Maria

May 29, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

The judge is correct with the ruling. Laura needs to find something to do. How about volunteering at school and helping kids learn how to read!!! Just a thought.

By George

May 29, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

This woman is a nut; much like the knuckleheads above who appear to be praising her actions. Have you all missed something in life? Or are you all just suffering from a serious lack of moogambo? Get your head out of your backsides and worry about something real and meaningful; like getting this war in Iraq over with. The judge made the only decision that made any sense; he sent her & her whacko protestations packing.

By alk

May 29, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

So Ms Mallory hasn’t read the Potter books. Anybody consider that fact that the women might be illiterate?

By gatiggermom

May 29, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

With all due respect to Rawhide… My beliefs are such that I don’t personally get involved in governmental issues. I don’t get involved in politics because there is nothing godly about it. While I live in this world, as much as I am able, I try not to be of the world.
I am not trying to parent other people’s children nor am I trying to force my beliefs on others. My comment was my opinion and, to address your comment, I am trying to be a light in this dark world. I do this by sticking to my beliefs - not proselytizing others - just simply living out my faith and hoping to be an example (albeit a quite one) that may make someone else stop and think about the direction they may be going in. And, to EdM - what about my beliefs are ignorant? Yes, our son was about 17 at the time, and because he was still under our leadership, that book was not allowed in our home. What he does now is up to him. We will be held accountable for what we taught (or didn’t teach). Furthermore, you are obviously one of those people who, because you don’t believe in the Bible, cannot possibly understand my position. Someday you will get an opportunity to see what you’re missing.

By Kathy

May 29, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

Children of families like Mrs. Mallory’s intimidated my daughter several years ago with their parroted opinions of the Harry Potter series. These were well-meaning families who wanted to do right by their children, but in trying to do that, created ill will toward anyone within earshot. My daughter and I agreed that she should be respectfully quiet, as anything she said would mark her as a heretic who was “poisoning” the homeschooling community of which we were a part at that time.

I believe that many of these parents, like Mrs. Mallory, elected to allow their opinions to be determined by the writings of a small group of conservative Christians, but never read the books for themselves.

How many other books in the public school library might be subject to Mrs. Mallory’s proposed censorship if she started reading them all? The Harry Potter books were chosen because of their international popularity.

Mrs. Mallory, I hope someday you will mature enough to allow yourself to read these books so that you can form your own opinion. Until then, let this one rest, please.

By LauraMalloryIsAWizard

May 29, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Laura Mallory, for making the South look backwards, ignorant, and utterly ridiculous to the rest of the country yet AGAIN. Keep it up, the rest of America loves laughing at us.

By Adam

May 29, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

If you think the Harry Potter books are driving children to witchcraft and wizardry, you are insane. Many people have pointed out the positive message in the books. Besides the Christian values espoused in the books, the books can be seen as a metaphor about racism. Voldemort and his actions can be compared to that of Adolph Hitler. His followers, the Death Eaters bear a striking resemblance to the KKK. These are just my observations. I’m glad that the woman lost her case. She hasn’t even read the books. She should feel ashamed to even acknowledge that she hadn’t read the books.

By Kathy

May 29, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

I wonder, do Ms. Mallory’s children know about the ‘fairy tales’ - Cinderella? Snow White? Chronicles of Narnia? I will PARENT my child no one else - no one but me has the right to decide what my child will learn/read or experience. Again, the LOUD MINORITY bog down the judicial system - but the SILENT MAJORITY let them - shame on us.

By Mark Kelly, Jasper, TN

May 29, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

If Laura Mallory had won, would another round of the Salem Witch Trials been scheduled?

These books have been a tremendous boon to reading throughout the world, and not just the HP series. Children are also taking books of all genres off of library and book store shelves and — oh, my gosh — reading them. Some of these books are — oh, my gosh again — Christian oriented like C.S. Lewis’ Narnia Series. Others are fictional works by leading authors, while they are also looking into history, art and too many genres to mention.

Mrs. Mallory, this is a very good development.

We live in a free and open society. Parents help direct their children to appropriate reading lists. It’s their job to make decisions on TV programing, movies, books to read and which church to attend.

If the founding fathers had wanted a book nazi, they would have named one a long time ago.

By JD

May 29, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

For those calling her names, just realize she’s no different from the fruitcake liberal nazis in her fanaticism.

By Jim

May 29, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

LauraMalloryIsAWizard, Some of the ignorants postings aren’t helping either.

By scott

May 29, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

How can this lady fight against the book when she states she has never read it. Give me a break.

On one posters comments of a NeoCon, I am a libertian / conservative who tells an occasional off color joke, believes that adult clubs should be allowed, etc. Dont turn it into a right wing / left wing issue. We have liberal relatives that agree with this woman.

By Eeyore

May 29, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Like many others, I am very pleased with the ruling from the judge, and hope that Ms. Mallory finds some other use for her considerable energy.

There are so many things in our society that need rectification, but banning the Harry Potter books is not one of them. I started reading them when the third book was published and I read in the Seattle Times that there were parents who wanted to ban the books—I believe that was in mid-1999. I’ve read all the books numerous times, have encouraged others to read them, have thoroughly enjoyed discussing them with other adults and teens in several different forums, and am looking forward to the 7th and final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. (Is it July 21st yet?)

Now, having said all that, I am a Christian. I have, in no way, been tempted to do anything to do with witchcraft of any kind, nor has anyone else that I know. I’ve looked at Ms. Mallory’s website, and found it full of links that sounded like more of the things that were cited by the Onion (in a satirical spoof of the witchcraft issue), a while back. Remember those emails that went round telling how HP had led children to the dark side? I think that’s what she’s still using as her authority, since she hasn’t bothered to read the books, and therefore can’t cite any actual references that are credible.

I would like to suggest to Ms. Mallory that she take that time and energy and the money she has raised (if you look at her website, she takes donations to fund all this book banning effort, rather than using her own), and do something really Christian in your own community and country.

Might I suggest—help set up a soup kitchen and a food/clothing bank. Every community has people who need help, and that is something that we are told we, as Christians, must do—help provide for the poor, the widowed, the orphans.

Donate time or money to promote literacy—and not just based on what you want them to read, but literacy for the purpose of opening the door to the wonderful, rich, full world of reading.

If there aren’t enough things to occupy your time in your own community, be a really good role model for your children and volunteer your time in the Gulf Region helping to rebuild homes for people who are still homeless or whose businesses have been destroyed by Katrina—the need there is great and Ms. Mallory, you seem to have the energy that is needed.

Not enough? Try a mission trip to help better the lives of people in a third world country—many places need potable water and ways to cook their food without descimating their forests.

You see, Ms. Mallory, as a Christian, I think you are on the wrong path. There are so many causes that are worthy of your vast energy and zeal, but banning the Harry Potter books is a considerable waste of your time. If you actually had bothered to read them, you would find, as many Christians have, and has already been pointed out, that they are decidedly Christian stories—love, friendship, loyalty, making right choices, fighting evil. Magic is not the point of the stories at all—I’m so sorry that you wasted your time in fighting a battle that is so misguided.

By Mary

May 29, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

Bravo, Eeyore, Bravo. You summed things up perfectly. As a Christian myself, oh, I am sorry a Catholic (I always forget that, although Catholics are the original followers of Christ and his beliefs, we are not considered to be Christian by Evangelicals and other “Christians”), Ms. Mallory is certainly not using her time, energy, money, thoughts, values, etc. in the Christian way as Christ meant. She has monopolized enough resources for her own agenda and should be sanctioned for her actions. She should also take the suggestions of Eeyore if she really considers herself to be a true Christian as opposed to the hypocrite that she publicly appears to be.

By BossLady

May 29, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

I believe the ruling is fair and correct. The books are work of fantasy and storytelling. If that is all she has to be afraid of then she is pitiful.

By Druid

May 29, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

Great news! I’m going to paint myself blue and dance around a bonfire tonight to celebrate!

By Woodie

May 30, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

This lady needs to homeschool her children. That way she can create all the biases into her children that her religion dictates.

By whois

May 30, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Harry Potter Lady has a website!

http://www.networksolutions.com/whois/results.jsp?domain=hisvoicetoday.org

By MBW

May 30, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

No wonder our schools are failing. They have to spend their time fending off lawsuits from parents like this.

It’s all these lawsuits that prevent schools for enforcing disipline in the schools, providing kids with decent literature (even if it’s controversial), etc.

We live in a lawsuit-happy society….and until that changes, our schools will continue to be afraid to discipline, afraid to educate, and, apparently, afraid to put children’s books about magic on their shelves

By Rachel

May 30, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

I am a Christian also, and there are so many other things this woman could spend her time and energy working on. There are few books you will ever read that won’t have something someone finds offensive. I am an avid romance reader. Mrs. Mallory could say I was reading soft porn. I’m sure most of us who do not have husband who perform like the men in the books would glady use witchcraft on them.

By Gwinnett Parent

May 30, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

I happen to agree with the Parent for banning. The only positive discussion that is running rampid is that it promotes ‘reading’; which obviously is a wonderful thing. However; Gwinnett, Atlanta - heck the WHOLE state of Georgia has millions of other books that are available to promote good, wholesome, positive reading. And besides - the request is to ban the books from the school’s Library, she’s not requesting that they be destroyed or removed from circulation. If removing the book from the library saves or prevents just one child from going down a possible wrong path - wouldn’t it be worth it?

By SEJ

May 30, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

This whole issue has been a big waste of tax payers dollars and time. It was utterly ridiculous for Ms Mallory to even fanthom the thought that she even had a case. Reading stories about witch craft and magic has been around long before the 20th century and I do not see it changing anytime soon. If Ms Mallory wants to monitor what her children are reading, then that should be her prerogative, but it is wrong for her to feel that her campaign speaks for everyone. Sure you may have a great number of individuals who feel as Ms Mallory, but majority rules.

As a parent I have educated my children the difference between fiction and nonfiction. Maybe she should consider those fundamental parenting skills first and use her energy towards a more worthy cause.

By Leah

May 30, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

This woman, who doesn’t qualify as a lady in my opinion, is being a complete idiot and making a total fool of herself and embarassing her kids. And she’s wasting taxpayers’ money having to defend against such a ridiculous case and the court costs. I hope she goes broke over it.

By Linda

May 30, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

I am glad of the ruling. I am a grandmother that has all 6 books plus Jim Dale’s cds of all books and, will go to the Borders’ Potter Party at midnight the 29th. Why pick on JK and Harry. The books are entertaining and interesting and I for one will be sad to see the last one. My biggest problem is trying to find a Quiddich match to go to!

By Perkle

May 30, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

Can’t believe this is still a story and that a court would even listen to her. If there were hundreds or thousands of people protesting I could understand a court of law weighing in on it, but ONE PERSON? If your children do not know the difference between fantasy and reality I think you have a much bigger problem on your hands. There is no evidence whatsoever that anyone having read this book has turned to the occult or thinks they’re a witch. They are wonderfully entertaining stories. I sure hope she finds something better to do with her time.

By Ex-Northerner

May 30, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Au contrare, Gwinnet Parent. The largest issue here is the issue of free speech and book banning. What gives Ms. Mallory, or you for that matter, the authority or the right to say what’s “good, wholesome, positive reading” for my kids. I happen to think it is the “Harry Potter” series! My kids are not witchcraft proponents nor did they get anything like that out of reading the books. The point is that you DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO BAN BOOKS I WANT MY KIDS TO READ! This is not Germany in 1939.

By Brian Curtis

May 30, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Gwinnett Parent: What “wrong path” are you talking about? Harry Potter books ARE good, wholesome, positive reading.

Is anyone seriously suggesting that they’re not? Other than Mrs. Mallory, that is.

By Rhonda

May 30, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

It is time and past time that real Christians and patriotic Americans with genuine family values stood up to the religious extremists and told them that they are NOT going to take over our country, tell our children what they can read, our teachers what they can teach and our families how to raise our children. If she does not want her children to read Harry Potter, that is ok. Let them be left out just like the poor little Jehovah Witness children who cannot participate in Christmas parties. She will pay later. When they are older they can choose their own faith and, hopefully, it will be closer to truth than their mother’s.

But don’t tell me that my child cannot enjoy what other kids enjoy. I know actively Christian families in another city who send their Presbyterian Christian children to Catholic schools because the public schools are horrible. When the child comes home with issues of Catholic theology, the family discusses it and how it differs from his familiy’s values and beliefs. The child continues to get a quality education, and has the bonus of understanding a different faith and becoming stronger in his own.

This is America. We have free speech and free press. If you want religious fundanmentalism, start a fundamentalist Christian version of the al-Quiada schools in Afganistan where the little boys rock and recite the Koran all day and never learn anything else. They grow up to be Taliban.

By Rob Man

May 30, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

It’s the nature of our society to let everybody have a voice. The probelms come when radicals from either wing want to terminate the freedoms of those who do not agree with them.

You cannot legislate ethics, morality, or religious views on the public. Not now, not ever.

I don’t care what the current politcal climate may be - eventually the pendulum will swing back again.

Thank God, Jehovah, Allah, Mohammed, Buddah and all the rest that freedom is not the sole property of a few zealots!

By Jack

May 30, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Her poor son must wish he were invisible. She has no idea what he must be going through.

By PR

May 30, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

This woman needs to get a life. She, and the the right-winger in this country, is getting just like HITLER was trying to tell us what we can read and watch. On top of this she adimts she has never read any of the books. Shows you how stupid some Georgia people are. Hey lady….maybe we should take your kids and give them to someone with some brains who knows how to raise them…DOH!

By Sherry

May 30, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

I hope one day Ms. Mallory’s faith is strong enough for her to be able to tolerate exposure to that of other people. Then she will be a mature Christian

By not blonde

May 30, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

Right or wrong, she did stand up for what she believes in. More than most of you would do. Also, she has a right to her opinion. As for her cause, well, I think it could have been directed to an area that needs work, like homless people, starving children, fighting meth abuse, etc.

By Proud Momma :)

May 30, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

I have a very young child that doesn’t read yet but I don’t think I would want her reading Harry Potter. I would stand behind this mother if anyone asked my opinion. I think people really have their eyes shut to the spiritual war going on in life. We took prayer out of school and does anyone want to put two and two together?? I am new at this mother thing so I don’t plan to be perfect. I wouldn’t mind the books being available but don’t push it on my family to read. I have wonderful children books by people like C.S Lewis to enhance my daughters mind. I think back to my childhood and my parents wouldn’t let me watch the smurfs because they were uneasy about what they stood for. It was there opinion and I didn’t miss anything because they provided such a wonderful foundation of love and character without the smurfs or something like Harry Potter. I would rather keep something I am not sure of away then take a chance in teaching something harmful. I guess I am excited just to know someone has the guts to stand for their opinion. So if she doesn’t win that’s okay to me because she is gaining character. God might be putting her thru this to strengthen her to handle something greater he has for her. Sometimes we only hold one small piece to the puzzle of life and we don’t want to stand back to see the whole picture.

By RJ

May 30, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

It was the right decision. Mallory sounds like “Chicken Little” and G.Bush & Dick Cheney. Watch out “the sky is falling”. Likes to scare everyone, they do….

By barbz

May 30, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Religious hypocrisy is alive and well when it comes to forcing beliefs on others or, in Miz Mallory’s case, determining what other people’s children should be allowed to read.

Here’s where Miz Mallory’s hypocrisy seeps into the picture. Her argument in court was, since Harry Potter depicts magic and witchcraft, and since some people practice magic and witchcraft as their religion, the presence of Potter violates the separation of church and state, and thus have no place in a public school library.

Mallory hasn’t even read any Harry Potter books! She got her information from Christian message boards and fan sites!

Having dismissed the Potter books as some sort of religious guide, she says, “I have a dream that God will be welcomed back in our schools again,” Mallory said. “I think we need him.”

She recommends the Harry Potter books be replaced with other fiction; C.S. Lewis ‘Chronicles of Narnia’ and Tim LaHaye’s ‘Left Behind’ fables for children.

Both of these books are based around Christian themes. But wait, wouldn’t that, too, violate the separation of church and state that Mallory’s argument hinges upon?

It’s people like Laura Mallory who give Christianity a bad name and image these days. Her pontification on a book series she’s never read, her willingness to deny others the pleasure of reading them, and her failure to recognize the hypocrisy of removing a popular work of fiction (and failure to recognize that it IS fiction!) with other fictional works that parallel her beliefs more closely personifies the inflexible, intolerant, attitude I’ve come to associate with the Xianist . And if you think it can’t happen here, remember the Vista school board debacle of a few years back! It can, and it did.

Harry Potter is PRETEND! There are no magic powers. Kids will play Harry Potter, just like they play Superman or Lord of the Rings. Kids can differentiate between imaginary worlds and reality, why can’t Mallory?

By barbz

May 30, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this