On this episode, we celebrate the freedom to read with the ninth prompt in the Books and Bites 2022 Reading Challenge, read a banned or challenged book. Dr. Ron Critchfield, JCPL's Executive Director,  joins us to discuss the importance of intellectual freedom, the role of parents in helping their children choose books, the problems with censorship, and more.

What's the Difference Between Banned and Challenged Books?

According to the American Library Association, book challenges are "documented requests to remove materials from schools or libraries." A banned book is one that has been removed in response to a challenge.

Book Notes

• Jacqueline recommends The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
• Michael recommends Animal Farm by George Orwell
• Carrie recommends Lawn Boy by Jonathan Evison
• Find more banned or challenged books on the ALA's Top 10 Most Challenged Books page or on their Frequently Challenged Books page. You can also stop by the library display in our adult section or ask a librarian for help.

Bite Notes

• Pair The Hate U Give with Red Velvet Cake with Ermine Frosting, a Southern specialty that Starr's neighbor has perfected.
• Yorkshire Wensleydale & Cranberries is the perfect cheese to snack on while reading Animal Farm.
• Martha's American Food: A Celebration of Our Nation's Most Treasured Dishes, from Coast to Coast includes recipes for both Cedar-Plank Roasted Salmon and Pike Place Fish and Chips. Celebrate your freedom to read Lawn Boy with whichever sounds best to you.