Suzanne Nossel - On Censorship and Banning Books

PEN America has long worked against book bans, but recent trends show a drastic increase in banned books across the U.S., targeting works by and about marginalized communities. This censorship threatens free speech and denies children access to diverse narratives. PEN America is actively resisting these bans, advocating for the right to read and explore ideas.

What change has PEN America observed in the pattern of book bans over the last year?

• Books are now banned only in libraries

• No change in the pattern of book bans

• A decrease in the number of banned books

• An increase in the number of banned books

Which types of books are predominantly being targeted by the recent bans?

• Books about sports and entertainment

• Books about science and technology

• Books about people of color and LGBTQ communities

• Books about historical events

Why are some communities attempting to ban certain narratives?

• They believe these narratives are too mainstream

• They find these narratives threatening and different from the mainstream

• They think these narratives are too complex for children

• They want to promote these narratives more widely

How can books serve as a lifeline for marginalized children?

• By providing entertainment

• By offering stories of similar experiences and hope

• By helping them excel in sports

• By teaching them new languages

What is PEN America's stance on the issue of book bans?

• They remain neutral on the issue

• They oppose censorship and support the right to read

• They advocate for banning certain books

• They support age-appropriate censorship