I am appalled at the changes being instituted in classic literature, in particular, "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and "Tom Sawyer." From an educator's standpoint, I find it reprehensible to teach the history of America and American literature out of context.

Avoiding Twain's language accomplishes nothing but avoiding the facets of racial disparity at a particular time in history. Avoiding the issue of race does not eliminate it.

It is a disservice to all students to approach the subject of slavery and hardship in America's past without considering the separations and deprivations of different races, in particular that of those subjected to slavery. The venacular of the times reflects those conditions. Whoever thinks it's appropriate to avoid the subject of race in historical context and analysis of past and present conditions underestimates both the teacher and students' ability to discuss the subject.

I can think of nothing worse than looking at a history that has been distorted and couched in an effort to erroneously bolster a false sense of political correctness. Does the publisher think that such racial slurs are unfamiliar to citizens of any age or race today?

Students deserve the right to understand all conditions of social hardships and educators deserve the opportunity to responsibly approach the subject of race and its particulars in an open setting. I am offended that there are those who choose not to accept the reality of the history of America and its people. Historical literature should not be altered but addressed.