Books are disappearing from shelves across the country.
What does this mean for authors, illustrators, and—most crucially—for young readers?
This bold collection of fiction, memoir, poetry, graphic narratives, essays, and other genres explores book bans through various lenses, and empowers teens to fight back. From moving personal accounts to clever comebacks aimed at censorship, fifteen legendary YA authors and illustrators confront the high-stakes question of what is lost when books are kept from teens.
Contributors include Elana K. Arnold, Nikki Grimes, Ellen Hopkins, Kelly Jensen, Brendan Kiely, Maia Kobabe, Bill Konigsberg, Kyle Lukoff, MariNaomi, Trung Lê Nguyên, Ashley Hope Pérez, Isabel Quintero, Traci Sorell, Robin Stevenson, and Padma Venkatraman; the collection is a star-studded must-read that packs strength and power into every last word.
Striking illustrations from Ignatz-nominated artist Debbie Fong pair perfectly with the searing, impactful narrative. Resources include tips from the Vandegrift Banned Book Club and other teen activists, as well as extensive recommended book lists, a How to Start Your Own Little Free Library flier, and more.
Ages 12 and up.
Authentic and raw prose and poetry render an educational safe space for readers. . . this anthology acts as a call to action and a form of protest, using the power of words to inspire hope and unity. —Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Serving as as a manifesto against book banning delivered by the authors whose livelihood is on the line, this collection movingly reminds readers of the power they have against censorship. The authors’ encouraging, candid voices teach readers how to stand up to book bans by supporting challenged titles in communities and schools and helping the community see the value in being open to learning about issues they may fear or not understand. Powerful reading for a crucial moment. —Booklist (starred review)
This powerful compilation of essays, stories, comics, and poetry features 15 authors banding together over being banned; their work is enhanced by Ignatz Award-nominated illustrator Debbie Fong’s graphics. —Shelf Awareness
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