Abbott Elementary Recap: The Sassy Wizard Kid

by

From my point of view, it’s quite a significant achievement for a writer if their work lands on a banned books list – it suggests they are truly pushing boundaries. Nowadays, it’s not overly difficult to find yourself on such a list. Last year, there was an unprecedented 65% increase in attempts at banning books. From a cultural viewpoint rather than a historical one, it’s intriguing that people don’t usually show much concern about which books are available in libraries to the extent of advocating censorship, particularly in a country known for its First Amendment. It always feels somewhat unclean when that word is used. You might recall children who were forbidden from reading Harry Potter or those who echoed their parents’ beliefs that certain cartoons were satanic propaganda, but personally, I found these opinions to be rare. On the contrary, a study indicated that most parents believe book bans actually infringe upon their right to decide what is best for their children.

Throughout recent years, headlines have consistently highlighted censorship issues, yet a study by The Washington Post revealed that just eleven individuals accounted for an astounding 60% of attempts to restrict access between 2021 and 2022. In Wisconsin, a single parent’s persistent efforts led to the temporary withdrawal of more than 400 books from school libraries a few years ago. Parents often justify banning books by invoking obscenity laws or the goal of shielding their children from certain concepts, aligning with the growing debate on “parental rights.” It’s worth noting that Americans are known for mobilizing quickly when inspired, and sometimes this happens even without thorough research. This evening’s episode of Abbott delves into this contentious subject, featuring a discontented parent who sets off a wave of action when she calls for the removal of the book titled The Sassy Wizard Kid from the library shelves.

Consistent with its characteristic style, the show playfully tackles the topic of censorship using humor that makes complex discussions more palatable and less contentious. In actuality, many books under scrutiny are penned by authors from underrepresented groups or contain themes revolving around race, sexuality, gender, and violence. Unlike those politically charged subjects, “The Sassy Wizard Kid,” a comedic reinterpretation of “Harry Potter” featuring a Black protagonist named Jamiroquai Gemstone raised in a magical Atlanta barbershop, doesn’t delve into such issues directly. However, the narrative effectively addresses the core problem by demonstrating how attempting to ban a single book can lead to harmful consequences for students’ education. The character Crystal, founder of Forever Bitch Apparel, objects to the book based on her Christian beliefs (which include a tattoo of “bitch” on her chest), expressing disapproval towards its portrayal of magic and the wizard’s communication with his parents – although it should be noted that she hasn’t actually read the book; instead, these views are shaped by a subreddit called “Black Mamas On The Watch.”

Ava, Barbara, and Rosalyn Inez, our favorite librarian, don’t agree with Crystal’s decision to ban a book from the students. However, Crystal is adamant about keeping it out, even going as far as threatening to take the issue to the school district. As VP of the PTA, Crystal has some influence in the district, and after a misunderstanding at the budget meeting, Ava doesn’t want to cause trouble.

When Tariq heard about the ban on the book he planned to read his “son” that night, he got upset and went to Abbott to talk to the teachers about it. Tariq then asked for another book, “The 48 Laws of Power,” to be added to the library instead. Some people might avoid reading this book if they see it on someone’s shelf when dating.

Barbara commented that letting parents decide what books are available isn’t a good idea. But Ava promised to come up with a solution to bring “The Sassy Wizard Kid” back onto the shelves.

For a brief time, Tariq devises a cunning strategy to bypass rules and maintain the book’s availability by establishing a secret section in the library, which he dubs a “speakeasy.” This hidden area is veiled behind a curtain displaying images of non-restricted books, including one titled “The Sassy Wizard Kid.” However, this ruse unravels when a student loudly seeks to return his copy of the forbidden book while Crystal is working in the library. This incident escalates into a confrontation between Crystal and Tariq, causing them to pressure the Abbott staff to find a solution. Exasperated, Rosalyn decides to lock the library until the school finds a resolution. With no other options left, Ava convenes a PTA meeting to democratically address this issue. When the vote on the matter results in a stalemate, parents who had previously remained silent about “The Sassy Wizard Kid” begin advocating for its removal, sparking debates over what reading materials should be accessible to the students.

In Melissa’s narrative, as Barbara, Ava, and Rosalyn attempt to mollify their parents, Melissa grapples with the repercussions of her indecisiveness. She unexpectedly encounters her former partner Gary, following his unsuccessful proposal last season. They engage in a conversation, and Gary extends an invitation for her to attend his upcoming wedding, causing Melissa to ask Captain Robinson, her current casual companion, as her plus-one. However, when Robinson informs her that he’s already made plans for the day with someone else, Melissa is taken aback, reminded of their agreement to keep things casual. This situation leaves Melissa in a state of confusion, leading her to criticize Robinson’s new partner harshly. To remedy this predicament, Barbara and Jacob help Melissa acknowledge her genuine feelings for the fireman. In an attempt to win over Captain Robinson, Melissa displays vulnerability, a departure from her usual carefree demeanor. Eventually, Captain Robinson consents to an exclusive relationship, but he also mentions that he must arrest Mr. Johnson for setting off the school fire alarm without cause.

At the PTA gathering, things started becoming chaotic as one father proposed keeping the book if they could introduce the kids to Steve Harvey’s entire work, and suggested banning “Clifford The Big Red Dog”. Another parent even wanted to ban “The Little Prince” because of its alleged promotion of French values. This eventually led to 34 other books being questioned. In the end, Barbara stepped in and wisely reminded everyone that while there might be issues with some books, if they don’t let their children read them, they could miss out on many valuable ideas these books offer. Ava then linked Barbara’s words to a passage from “The Sassy Wizard”, teaching kids about having a growth mindset, which helped Crystal understand why the book was so beloved.

As a movie buff like myself, I openly admitted my opposition towards “The Sassy Wizard Kid” because I don’t wish for my child to learn disrespect towards adults through reading material. However, Barbara and Ava wisely pointed out that it’s my duty to discuss such matters with my child, not the school’s responsibility. As a former leader of the American Library Association’s Intellectual Freedom Committee once penned, “Censorship is control, while intellectual freedom is about respect.”

The best way we can safeguard our children is by equipping them with knowledge and treating them with respect, allowing them to discover new ideas at their own pace. Trusting they’ll make the right choices based on our guidance as adults. By the end of that meeting, all parents agreed unanimously to reopen the library without any external influence.

It wasn’t just about the library; when Barbara started discussing “a book everyone can read next,” hinting at the bible, people dispersed just as quickly as they had arrived.

Teacher’s Notes

• The storyline involving Gregory’s job hunt felt a bit dull and disheartening given the tough job market, but it’s been delightful watching Janine and Gregory strengthen their relationship and encourage each other. Moreover, the spiky, LOL-filled texts from Janine perfectly reflect her character. Indeed, Gregory’s opening scene was top-notch!

• Finally, my favorite lines from tonight:

Barbara: “This is going to end worse than the end of the New Testament.”

Ava: “Do I look like Ms. Inez to you? Do you see an Arby’s logo on my dome?”

Jacob after interrupting a reading of The Sassy Wizard: “Allies should be seen, not heard.”

Read More

2025-03-06 05:56