Huckleberry Finn, a Book of ControversySince its publication over one hundred years ago, Mark Twain's Huckleberry Finn has caused much disagreement and much controversy. The style and language used by Mark Twain is offensive to some, edifying to others, and yet bittersweet to me. All sides have strong, educated and sincere arguments. This is what makes it so difficult to decide whether to teach or read Huckleberry Finn aloud in class. Opponents of teaching, or using, Huckleberry Finn in the classroom say they find the book despicable, “rubbish”? and other harsh adjectives. One of the main reasons they criticize the book is the use of racial slurs towards African-American people, such as "nigger". They also claim that the author, Mark Twain, stereotypes Jim, an escaped African-American slave, as a fool with less intelligence than a fourteen-year-old Caucasian boy. As John H. Wallace says, "It [Huckleberry Finn] contributes to [African-American students] feelings of low self-esteem and to white students' lack of respect for blacks." As you can see, the feelings of some are bitter towards the use of Huckleberry Finn in the classroom. Supporters of the book say the book should be taught for several reasons, including the book's anti-slavery message. In contrast to opponents, writes David L. Smith, "he [Mark Twain] portrays Jim [the runaway slave] as a compassionate, shrewd, thoughtful, selfless, and even wise man." Supporters also point out that Twain actually condemns white society of the time for their barbaric practice of slavery. The supporter, Kenny G. Williams, believes that the novel should be read, because it uncovers a basic historical reality, which is important for the advancement of equality. Now you can see how people's positions on the use of Huckleberry Finn vary greatly from each other. I haven't read the book yet, but through some research I've found that I support the book more than I denounce it. I interviewed a dark-skinned friend of mine, Sanjay Nakka, and he had a positive message. He said: “Using this book [Huckleberry Finn] is essential to the acceptance of racial equality. Sometimes we need some controversy to bring an issue to light, where you can work on it, you know?? I also tend to lean towards his opinion, because I've heard strong arguments against the book, but I've heard stronger, more heartfelt, educated arguments in favor of using Huckleberry Finn in the classroom..