The answer to how the list of books is chosen might be here in section 3 assuming this list came from The Big Read. I'll reprint it up here:
For the pilot phase of The Big Read, we studied the programs and reading lists of successful “city reads” programs around the country. Focusing on American literary classics, we selected books that would appeal to diverse audiences.
We now have a Readers Circle—a distinguished group of 22 writers, scholars, librarians, critics, artists, and publishing professionals—who suggest the next books for American communities to share.
So the answer is really, by popularity among a small group of people and focus groups.
As for calling anyone names (like Margaret Mitchell) you might consider her in her times. One might point out that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle hated women but one rarely remarks on it with such passion because he's part of his time, as was Margaret Mitchell. As the musical South Pacific explained "You've got to be carefully taught" as were many of each of their generations. The tolerance levels have changed, the books are already in print. It makes them dated, but it also shows a nice contrast to where we've been. At least, one hopes such things are true.
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branchandroot
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Date: 2008-07-10 04:06 am (UTC)As for calling anyone names (like Margaret Mitchell) you might consider her in her times. One might point out that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle hated women but one rarely remarks on it with such passion because he's part of his time, as was Margaret Mitchell. As the musical South Pacific explained "You've got to be carefully taught" as were many of each of their generations. The tolerance levels have changed, the books are already in print. It makes them dated, but it also shows a nice contrast to where we've been. At least, one hopes such things are true.