Controversy
Few major works escape major controversy, and Wilder’s work is no exception. Reflecting her era, her books contain content now seen as incompatible with modern values. The racial content in her books prompted the renaming of the award bearing her name.
Due to offense taken towards Wilder’s work, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award was renamed the Children’s Literacy Legacy Award. The association explained its decision: “While committed to preserving access to Wilder’s work for readers, we also need to evaluate if her legacy aligns with this lifetime achievement award, given by an organization dedicated to all children.” Despite some controversies, Wilder’s books remain timeless and will continue to be cherished for generations.
