As summer wraps up and students return to school, a notable shift in extracurricular activities is emerging. Many students are now engaging in social justice causes, driven by the increasing prevalence of book censorship. This shift is part of a broader cultural battle over access to diverse content. As book bans escalate, particularly targeting books on race, gender, and … [Read more...] about Political Climate in High Schools: Responding to Book Bans
Pen America
New Harry Potter Book Amid Controversy: ‘From the Wizarding Archive’
Harry Potter fans have a lot to look forward to this fall with the release of a new addition to the Wizarding World. J.K. Rowling’s beloved series began in the 1990s, has sold millions of copies and inspired eight movies (plus a spinoff series). The captivating story follows Harry Potter as he fights the evil Lord Voldemort. Although the series has been praised for … [Read more...] about New Harry Potter Book Amid Controversy: ‘From the Wizarding Archive’
Official Launch of Authors Against Book Bans
Following an announcement from earlier this year, Authors Against Book Bans (AABB) was officially launched on June 26th. Comprising writers, illustrators, and creators from children’s and adult literature sectors, AABB aims to unite authors nationally and locally in support of grassroots efforts against book bans and challenges across the United States. Author and AABB … [Read more...] about Official Launch of Authors Against Book Bans
Penguin Random House Fights Book Ban
Penguin Random House has jumped into the fight against book bans, entering a sensitive debate that is playing out in school boards and statehouses across the country. At risk: potentially alienating a large chunk of customers on an issue at the crux of culture wars that have polarized the nation in ways not seen in decades.” Those who push for book bans often “believe they … [Read more...] about Penguin Random House Fights Book Ban
PEN America Warns Literary Community Against Book Cancellation Due to Online Outrage
Image credit: knowyourmeme Well-known non-profit organization PEN America has published a report that warns the literary community against book cancellation due to outrage. In the report, they have highlighted the fact that social media backlash is encouraging moral standards for the publishers/authors and preventing their creative freedom as well as imagination. The … [Read more...] about PEN America Warns Literary Community Against Book Cancellation Due to Online Outrage
Audible founder Don Katz will be the honoree at the Pen America 2022 Gala
The founder of Audible, Don Katz has been shortlisted by PEN America as the Business Visionary Honoree for its 2022 Literary Gala for his outstanding contributions to the world of literature and audio storytelling, the organization revealed in a press release. Katz who is an eminent journalist and an author himself founded Audible back in 1995. The company operated … [Read more...] about Audible founder Don Katz will be the honoree at the Pen America 2022 Gala