Who asked for *your* opinion?

pickle

Queenie wrote:

Sometimes, just SOMETIMES, I feel that people overstep the mark by offering, nay, forcing (!) their opinion on others when it's neither asked for, wanted or appreciated!!

My ds, 10yo, recently asked me if he could read some of my adult books (hang fire! We're not talking "adult" books here ) I read a range of books and he's referring to my novels - he thoroughly enjoyed "The Borribles Trilogy" and "Lord of the Rings" and so I said: "Ok!"

He's chosen one of the historical novels. Frankly, if he can sustain his interest in it beyond the first chapter, I'm more than happy for him to read it; he shares my love of reading and I'm happy to encourage that. (To be fair, I excluded any Sara Waters from his choices!! )

Off he trots to school (they are allowed to read books from home at school) quite happy in his world.

He came home, bit out of sorts. Seems his teacher saw him reading the book and told him: "That is *not* suitable reading for a 10yo, put it away".
Ds explained that we are ok with it and she told him: "I've read that book and it's totally inappropriate, put it away!"

Later in the week, dh had to call the teacher about something else and as he was ending the conversation she chimes up with: "Oh and one more thing, I do not think K should be reading that book."

Well, excuse me! Did I *ask* for your opinion?

Sheeesh! What's going on here? Am I supposed to turn to teacher and ask her opinion/recommendation on what I am allowed to give my child to read now? Should I be questioning my own judgement, based on her opinion?

Grrrrrrr!!!!!!!

How dare she decide what's appropriate for your child! I'd understand if it was pornography, but a historical novel???!!! Ask her exactly what in the book she found not appropriate and to please provide that in writing if she is wanting to act as censor of your sons reading material. If she's not prepared to do this then tell her to butt out and mind her own business! I think you're justified in being angry with her.