Cobb Schools Remove Book Depicting Child Rape, Incest

MARIETTA, GA — Cobb County schools have removed a book depicting child rape and incest from their media centers, school officials said Thursday.

The removal of Toni Morrison's "The Bluest Eye" was part of Cobb County School District's ongoing book review process, school officials said. It is the 30th book CCSD has removed since 2024, CBS News reported.

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The district stated "The Bluest Eye" "contains graphic language depicting the rape of an 11-year-old girl by her father."

"The Bluest Eye" was first published in 1970 and reportedly conveys sexual abuse, racism and slavery, among other themes.

Upon review, school officials say they discovered "several passages" violated their content standards for sixth to 12th graders and said the book includes sexually explicit material that is not suitable for children.

CCSD provided a graphic book excerpt found between pages 161 and 163.

"The words speak for themselves," Cobb County School Superintendent Chris Ragsdale said in a news release. "Both as a father and as a superintendent, I think about a parent having to explain to their sixth-grade daughter after she encounters explicit descriptions of child incest and rape in a book provided at school, without parents knowledge. As the superintendent responsible for the instruction of 100,000 students, I do not have the luxury of making that decision for other parents and their children."

Other books written by Morrison are still available in the schools, according to the district.

"If you or your child is struggling, going through a difficult time, or needs someone to talk to, please reach out to your school counselor or social worker. Our school counselors and social workers are here to listen, care for students and families, and help connect you with the support and resources you need," school officials said.