Frankfurt Book Fair: open letter supports cancelled Adania Shibli
In these recent and troubling times, we have witnessed a disheartening trend across several European countries—a clampdown on cultural events that seek to amplify Palestinian art, voices, and stories. The Frankfurt Book Fair, known as the largest and most influential international book fair, slated to run from October 18 to 23, has stirred controversy by […]
Intersectional Environmentalist author Leah Thomas on climate change
Climate change is considered an intersectional issue because it intersects with and exacerbates various social, economic, and environmental challenges, disproportionately affecting different communities and groups of people, which is what we spoke about with The Intersectional Environmentalist author Leah Thomas. Here are some key ways in which climate change is intersectional: Read: Edinburgh Book Festival: […]
Roberto Saviano defamation verdict against Italy PM a blow to free speech
In a verdict that has sent shockwaves through Italy’s literary and journalistic circles, renowned author and PEN award winner Roberto Saviano was found guilty of defaming Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. The ruling, handed down by Rome’s criminal court, came with a €1,000 (£865 / $1,054) fine and a sense of foreboding for free speech […]
Michael Rosen unveils Uyghur scholar Rahile Dawut as PEN’s Writer of Courage
Renowned author Michael Rosen recently announced Professor Rahile Dawut as the recipient of the prestigious PEN Pinter Prize for her courage and commitment to her work despite facing persecution. The annual prize, named after the legendary playwright Harold Pinter, is awarded to writers who have faced adversity for their beliefs. The award ceremony took place […]
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 […]
Mongolian books face ban as part of China’s ‘cultural genocide’
In a troubling episode indicative of China’s strict censorship rules, the world was recently reminded of the country’s relentless efforts to suppress voices that diverge from the official party line. Mongolian literature, long treasured for its rich cultural heritage, has become the latest casualty in Beijing’s campaign to assert control over ethnic Mongolians’ identity. Chinese […]
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 […]
Judy Blume and other bestselling authors unite to fight book bans
A group of bestselling authors has joined forces to support PEN America’s campaign in Florida to counter book bans and restrictions on educational materials. This unprecedented collaboration, led by acclaimed author Michael Connelly, aims to safeguard the freedom to read and learn in public classrooms across the state, and it comes at a time when […]
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, […]