Black British History: UK adults lack knowledge, new study finds
Discover UK’s overlooked Black history and why Atinuke urges comprehensive integration in British education.
Holocaust memoirs among 450 books removed from Iowa schools
In a recent survey conducted by The Des Moines Register, shocking revelations have emerged about the removal of books from school libraries across Iowa, including important memoirs related to the Holocaust. At the start of the school year, at least 450 books, spanning a wide range of genres, were pulled from the shelves, igniting a […]
Scholastic backtracks after alleged exclusion of diverse books
Children’s publisher Scholastic was criticised for alleged exclusion of diverse books at book fairs in the US amid right-wing pressure.
Clapham Book Festival: Melvyn Bragg and modern literary trends
The Clapham Book Festival 2023, known for its distinctive and quirky lineup, brought together a diverse range of literary and broadcasting talents. Among the highlights was the appearance of the renowned broadcaster and author Melvyn Bragg, who engaged in a conversation about his life, work, and writing with Radio 4’s cultural and opera expert, Tom […]
International Day of the Girl Child: 15 empowering books for change
The International Day of the Girl (IDG), observed every 11th of October, stands as a global platform dedicated to advocating for the comprehensive rights of girls worldwide. As we navigate a landscape where movements and actions aim to undermine the rights of girls and women and reverse progress towards gender equality, the impact on girls […]
Alabama flags book because author’s name is ‘Gay’
In a recent incident that highlights the challenges libraries face in curating their collections, a children’s picture book titled “Read Me a Story, Stella” found itself at the centre of controversy at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library (HCPL). The cause of the uproar? The author’s last name is ‘Gay,’ leading to concerns of potentially “sexually […]
Banned Books Week: a catastrophic threat to intellectual freedom
In a world devoid of imagination, creativity, and a diversity of ideas, envision a society where certain books are deemed unfit for consumption. Such a bleak scenario is the essence of book banning and censorship, a practice that poses a significant threat to the freedom to read and the preservation of intellectual freedom. Banned Books […]
My Shadow is Purple author Scott Stuart on book bans extremism
In a world where diversity and representation are valued more than ever, stories that empower and embrace differences have become crucial. Scott Stuart, a father and author, has experienced both the triumphs and challenges of promoting inclusion through his children’s books. As we celebrate Banned Books Week, Stuart shared his journey with us at How […]
Book bans: Uncle Bobby’s Wedding sequel to be released by Sarah Brannen
Award-winning author and illustrator Sarah Brannen has been at the forefront of the LGBTQ+ book ban discussion due to her groundbreaking children’s book, “Uncle Bobby’s Wedding.” Originally published in 2008, this heartwarming picture book featuring a same-sex wedding has faced numerous challenges and bans across the United States. Amid the ongoing backlash against such books, […]
Iowa book ban leads to disclaimers on Little Free Libraries
In a response to Iowa’s recent contentious legislation banning certain books from schools, several school districts in the state are taking proactive measures to protect themselves. Reports from the Des Moines Register have highlighted how West Des Moines and Urbandale schools in Iowa are now placing disclaimers on their Little Free Libraries located on school […]