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 childrens series run afoul of would-be censors, one for its scatological humor, the other because its 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 childrens and young adult authors speak out about what its like to have your work banned or challenged in America today. Prompted by Leonard S. Marcuss insightful questions, they discuss why their books have faced censorshipboth blatant and softhow the challenges have or havent 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 peoples rights.

Authors interviewed include:
Matt de la Pea
Robie H. Harris
Susan Kuklin
David Levithan
Meg Medina
Lesla Newman
Katherine Paterson
Dav Pilkey
Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell
Sonya Sones
R. L. Stine
Angie Thomas.

*SIGNED BOOKPLATES*

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 childrens series run afoul of would-be censors, one for its scatological humor, the other because its 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 childrens and young adult authors speak out about what its like to have your work banned or challenged in America today. Prompted by Leonard S. Marcuss insightful questions, they discuss why their books have faced censorshipboth blatant and softhow the challenges have or havent 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 peoples rights.