Is The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain (Huck Finn) worthy of all its critical praise, or just an offensive piece of trash that should be rid of its status as masterpiece of American art Literature? Although praise for the novel abounds, it was rejected by many upper-class circles and remains one of the most controversial books in America. The American Library Association ranked it fifth on the list of "The 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books from 1990 to 1999" (Powell). Despite this notorious publicity, Ernest Hemingway's claim that Huck Finn is "the best book we have" is defended. by many literary scholars today. In fact, the majority of high schools require students to read the novel. These schools perceive the precious truths of humanity that lie beneath the surface of the storyline. Huck Finn is a precious and timeless work of art that is and will be. still remains a cornerstone of American literature. It contains essential lessons that must never be forgotten, lest society return to the horrible conditions of its past. The 1840s are a time most Americans would rather forget. Daily life in the South at this memorable time. His descriptions often cause a level of discomfort with the use of the word "nigger" and the way African Americans are portrayed. This conversation between Huck and Aunt Sally illustrates this terrible point of view. slaves: “'My God! was anyone injured? 'No. I killed a nigger. “Well, that’s lucky; because sometimes people get hurt” (Twain 201). Slaves were harshly looked down upon and were not even considered “people.” Aunt Sally's reaction represents the typical view of slaves held by most Southern Americans. Scenes like this intention...... middle of paper ......ks CitedTwain, Mark. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. New York: Barnes & Noble Books, 2008. Print. Twain, Mark. Introduction. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. By Robert G. O'Meally. 2008. New York: Barnes & Noble Books, 2008. Print. Powell, Alvin. "The Fight for Huck Finn Continues: Ed School Professor Fights for Twainclassic." The Harvard Gazette. Harvard University, September 28, 2000. Web. February 11, 2012. “Themes and Construction: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” Gale Student Resources in Context. Gale, 2003. The web. February 11.