Some people might wonder if there is anything protecting an author’s right to publish information and a reader’s right to enjoy it.

First Amendment: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

Passed by Congress September 25, 1789. Ratified December 15, 1791.

Literature helps us navigate the world by shining a light on challenging and uncomfortable topics. Censorship leaves us in the dark. Of the 483 books that were challenged or banned in 2018, these are the Top 11 Most Challenged. The annual list is compiled by the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom. 

If you were an author, what might your response be if you found out one of your books had been banned?
Authors have strong feelings about whether or not their works should be banned. Post your reaction to the video, Authors Stand Up for Free Speech and tag me @patriciaeyer or simply leave your response in the comment section below.

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