Authors of top banned books discuss censorship | ABCNL

Summary

The video transcript discusses the issue of book banning, particularly focusing on books with queer themes, which are among the top targets for censorship in schools and libraries across the US. Authors George M. Johnson and Mike Curado, whose books 'All Boys Aren't Blue' and 'Flamer' respectively are on the list of most banned books, join a conversation to address concerns about the appropriateness of these books for young adults. They argue that these books provide essential resources and narratives for teens navigating real-world issues, including sexual assault and identity. The authors share the positive impact their books have had on readers, emphasizing the importance of representation and providing a roadmap for queer youth. They also discuss the negative repercussions of censorship, such as erasing queer stories and sending harmful messages to LGBTQ+ teens. Strategies to combat book banning include participation in school board meetings, supporting book clubs, and using legal avenues like federal lawsuits. The authors hope that their books will instill hope and a sense of belonging in young readers, reinforcing the value of literature in shaping the next generation's understanding of a diverse and inclusive society.

Takeaways

• 📚 Band Books Week, initiated in 1982, aims to highlight book bands in the US and has recorded targeted censorship of 3,923 book titles in schools and libraries.
• 🚫 The American Library Association has noted an increase in book banning, with a focus on titles that are claimed to be sexually explicit.
• 🏳️‍🌈 George M. Johnson and Mike Curato are authors of two of the top five banned books, which are queer-themed and aimed at young adults.
• 📖 Johnson's book 'All Boys Aren't Blue' is a young adult non-fiction memoir that addresses growing up queer and black, including experiences of sexual assault.
• 🎨 Curato's 'Flamer' is a graphic novel for ages 14 and up, depicting a boy bullied for his appearance and challenging stereotypes about being gay.
• 🤔 Concerns raised by some parents suggest that these books are inappropriate for children and should not be in public libraries or classrooms.
• 🛡 Johnson argues that the books are not for children but for mature young adults and are necessary for them to navigate real-world issues.
• 🌐 Curato discusses the repercussions of book censorship, including the impact on queer teenagers' mental health and the message it sends about their worth.
• 💌 Both authors have received feedback from readers who feel validated and seen in their work, highlighting the importance of representation.
• 🤝 Johnson and Curato emphasize the universal impact of their books, helping not just queer youth but also adults and seniors who support them.
• 🛡 Strategies to fight book bans include legal action, public testimony, and empowering young people to organize and advocate for their right to access these books.

Q & A

What is Band Books Week and why was it started?

Band Books Week, which started in 1982, is an initiative aimed at bringing attention to book bands in the United States. It highlights the issue of censorship and challenges to certain book titles, particularly those that are considered controversial or inappropriate by some groups.

What is the American Library Association's role in Band Books Week?

The American Library Association records instances of targeted censorship during Band Books Week. In the year mentioned in the script, they have documented at least 3,923 book titles being challenged in over 200 schools and public libraries.

What are the top five banned books according to the American Library Association?

The script does not provide a complete list of the top five banned books, but it mentions that 'All Boys Aren't Blue' by George M. Johnson and 'Flamer' by Mike Curato are among the most challenged books.

Why are 'All Boys Aren't Blue' and 'Flamer' considered controversial?

'All Boys Aren't Blue' is a young adult non-fiction memoir that details the author's journey growing up queer and black, including experiences of sexual assault. 'Flamer' is a graphic novel for ages 14 and up that tells the story of a boy bullied for his appearance and challenges stereotypes of being gay. Both books are queer-themed and have been challenged for their content.

What is the argument against having these books in schools and public libraries?

Some people, mostly parents, argue that these books are inappropriate for children and should not be in public libraries or classrooms due to their explicit content and themes.

How does George M. Johnson respond to the argument that his book is inappropriate for young readers?

George M. Johnson argues that his book is not intended for children but for mature young adults, aged 16 to 18. He emphasizes that young adults need to read about heavier topics that affect their lives and that his book provides resources and guidance for navigating these issues.

What are the potential repercussions of banning these types of books, according to Mike Curato?

Mike Curato suggests that book bans, especially those targeting queer stories, can send a harmful message to queer children that they are not wanted or valued. This can contribute to feelings of isolation and even increase the risk of suicide among queer teenagers.

How do authors George M. Johnson and Mike Curato receive feedback from readers of their books?

Both authors receive feedback from readers of all ages, expressing how the books have validated their experiences and helped them see themselves represented in literature. They also receive hateful comments, but the positive impact on readers is what motivates them to continue their work.

What strategies does George M. Johnson recommend to fight against book bans?

George M. Johnson advocates for a multi-pronged approach, including participating in federal lawsuits, attending school board meetings, providing resources and strategies to book clubs, and encouraging teenagers to use their voices and power to keep banned books on the shelves.

What message does Mike Curato hope readers, especially young readers, will take away from his book 'Flamer'?

Mike Curato hopes that readers, particularly young ones, will feel hope and validation from his book. He wants them to know that they are normal, loved, and have a place in the world.