Tanu answers “Why aren't there some warnings that is has...”

❆ Crystal ❆ asked this question about Pretty Girls:

Why aren't there some warnings that is has dark subject matter, torture, rape and violence to women? I assumed that it would skirt around some issues... You know it's happening, but it's not really detailed. But, that's not the case. There is some really touchy subject matter in this book and it may not appeal to everyone. I think there needs to be a warning to just people know.

Tanu Children’s books have been clearly labelled as such for decades. The reason video games and shows have ratings is for ease of watching and as a legal …moreChildren’s books have been clearly labelled as such for decades. The reason video games and shows have ratings is for ease of watching and as a legal requirement (R18+, for instance), because a parent might put them on with a younger child present without being aware of the level of violence involved. It is to avoid younger audiences being exposed to graphic sex and graphic violence. It is only secondarily useful for adults who may be uncomfortable with graphic content themselves.

Ratings are also a holdover from the not-so-distant days of videos and free-to-air TV. These days, with Netflix and YouTube, parental controls and filters are an extra precaution.

Books should not need warnings. If you’re triggered, seek counselling as appropriate, close the book and avoid genres which you know will contain content you may be triggered by. It’s ridiculous to pick up a crime fiction book such as Slaughter’s and expect it to be squeaky clean. There are cozy mysteries if you want non-graphic content.(less)

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