You Can't Say That! Writers for Young People Talk About Censorship, Free Expression, and the Stories They Have to Tell

Leonard S. Marcus (Editor)
Retail: $18.99
You Pay: $2.70
You Save 86%
In stock
Only 402 left
SKU
146924
Product Type: Hardcover Books
Age Groups: Ages 13 to 15, Ages 16 to 18

What happens when freedom of expression comes under threat? In frank and wide-ranging interviews, historian and critic Leonard S. Marcus probes the experience of thirteen leading authors of books for young people.

A powerful photo essay on transgender teens is called anti-religious and anti-family. A meticulously researched primer on sex education stirs up accusations of pornography and child abuse. Picture books about two mommies (or two penguin daddies) set off a hue and cry. Two hugely popular children’s series run afoul of would-be censors, one for its scatological humor, the other because it’s deemed too scary. Kids’ books that touch on race, sex, LGBTQ matters, the occult, “coarse language,” and more have found themselves under the scrutiny of those who challenge First Amendment rights.

Tune in as thirteen top children’s and young adult authors speak out about what it’s like to have your work banned or challenged in America today. Prompted by Leonard S. Marcus’s insightful questions, they discuss why their books have faced censorship—both blatant and “soft”—how the challenges have or haven’t affected their writing, and why some people feel they have the right to deny access to books. In addition, Leonard S. Marcus puts First Amendment challenges in a historical context and takes a promising look at the vibrant support network that has risen up to protect and defend young people’s rights.

Authors interviewed include:

  • Matt de la Peña
  • Robie H. Harris
  • Susan Kuklin
  • David Levithan
  • Meg Medina
  • Lesléa Newman
  • Katherine Paterson
  • Dav Pilkey
  • Justin Richardson
  • Peter Parnell
  • Sonya Sones
More Information
SKU 146924
ISBN 9780763690366
Language English
Page Count 240
Product Type Hardcover Books
Book Type Short Stories, Essays & Anthologies
Primary Contributor Leonard S. Marcus
Age Groups Ages 13 to 15, Ages 16 to 18
Publisher PRH - Candlewick Press