Rogue Librarians

Join us for our silliest conversation yet, goodness knows we needed a good laugh.  Today we read and discuss two delightful picture books.  Ogilvy was written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by T.L. McBeth, and was published in 2019.  It received a starred review in Kirkus, and positive reviews in Publishers Weekly, Horn Book, and Booklist.  Worm Loves Worm, written by J.J. Austrian and illustrated by Mike Curato (who wrote Flamer which this pod covered in Season 2, episodes 25-26). It was published in 2016.  It received a starred Review from Publishers Weekly, and positive reviews from School Library Journal, and Horn Book.As happens during a spontaneous conversation, Dorothy referenced a few things she couldn't remember the names of. Both of those are listed below. .  Podcast: SciShow Tangents:Gay Animals - with Field Guide to Gay Animals!Movie: Trainwreck (2015), starring Amy Schumer

Join us for a fascinating and enlightening conversation with debut author Debby Show as she discusses her book, Paper Roses. The book explores Show’s real history and intimate truths as she grapples with the effects of generational trauma and with her experiences as the sister, and victim, of a rather infamous public figure. That said, this is not a book about her sister’s exploits; instead, it explores their mutual family history – through several viewpoints – and traces how trauma can leave a lasting legacy.  The story has been fictionalized, but the emotions it evokes bear the weight of deeper truths.You can reach Debby Show at [email protected], or through her website at debbyshow.comSome of the books we mention on the podcast include:  The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank BaumStone Soup, by Marcia BrownThe Nancy Drew Series, by Carolyn KeeneThe Bobbsey Twins Series, by Laura Lee HopeMaus I and Maus II, by Art Spiegelman  (and here is a link to our episodes:Maus Part 1 (Why It’s Banned) and  Maus Part 2 (Close Reading).

Today we talked to author and podcast host, Heather Hester.  Heather is the host of the podcast More Human. More Kind. and the author of Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias and Embrace, Empower and Love Your LGBTQ+ Teen.  As a speaker, author, coach, and LGBTQ+ advocate, she helps parents, allies, and organizations move from fear to fierce, informed love with clarity, compassion, and courage. She believes in the magic of connection and that kindness and belonging aren’t just a feeling, they’re a practice. You can find out more about her podcast at morehumanmorekind.com and more about the many ways she advocates for the LGTBQ+ community @ heatherhester.net Books we discussed on the podcast include:  The Boxcar Children, by Gertrude Chandler WarnerThe Last of the Really Great Wangdoodles, by Julie Andrews EdwardsMrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh, by Robert C. O’BrienThe Scarlet Letter, by Nathaniel HawthorneA Discovery of Witches, by Deborah HarknessAnything by the author Emily HenryI Am Malala, by Malala Yousafzai 

"Stories bond us, but so does struggle" ~Sam HelmickIn this episode of Rogue Librarians, we speak with Sam Helmick, President of the American Library Association.  This is our third conversation with Sam!  This time we are focusing on the upcoming Youth Media Awards and what this event means to children, librarians, and book lovers everywhere.  Below are all the pertinent links.Stream the Youth Media awards at ala.unikron.com and on the ALA Facebook page.For more information go to the ALA Youth Media Awards information pageSam Helmick’s contact information:@geometric rabbit  or @shelmick on Instagram@samhelmick on Bluesky@samhelmick on FacebookSome books we talked about during the podcast:Bluebird, by Sharon CameronAmerican Dirt, by Jeanine CumminsThe 13 ½ Lives of Captain Bluebear, by Walter MoersRumo and His Miraculous Adventures, by Walter MoersGood Spirits, by BK BorisonCharlotte’s Web, by E.B. White - special editionThe Poet X, by Elizabeth AcevedoIsland of the Blue Dolphins, by Scott O’DellThe Witch of Blackbird Pond, by Elizabeth George SpeareBig, by Vashti HarrisonHair Love, by Matthew A. Cherry, Illustrated by Vashti Harrison Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice SendakA Heart In The Body Of The World, by Deb Caletti

In this episode we do a close reading of the book I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood up for Education and was Shot by the Taliban, by Malala Yousafzai. As always, we found the conversation enlightening and cathartic.  Learning about Pakistan’s history and the Pashtun people was fascinating.  We also found that the struggle between religious conservatives and those challenging traditional values is universal, not isolated and far away.   Additionally, we tried the sacred reading practice Florilegia, which we learned from the folks over at Harry Potter and the Sacred Text.  The result was compelling.  

First, we apologize for some sound issues we were having in this episode.  We’ve changed a few things and are learning as we go.  We hope to solve this problem before our next recording. In this Part 1 episode we discuss the book I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood up for Education and was Shot by the Taliban, by Malala Yousafzai.  In Part 1 we discuss why the book is banned, share some context to help understand the book, and give our assessment of why it’s worth reading. The book was published in  the US and UK on Oct. 8, 2013, exactly one year after the author, Malala Yousafzai, was, as the title implies, shot by the Taliban in a direct assassination attempt. The memoir was co-written by journalist Christina Lamb. The book  has been translated into more than 40 languages.Today’s banned bit was a story published by the ALA entitled, “Court permanently blocks Trump’s executive order to dismantle federal agency for America’s libraries.”We found information on why the book was challenged in the following articles:  ‘The Color Purple’ and 30 Other Banned and Challenged Books You Should Be Watching - PEN AmericaReport: 1,586 School Book Bans and Restrictions in 86 School Districts Across 26 States - PEN AmericaThese 176 Books Were Banned in Duval County, Florida - PEN AmericaPakistani private schools ban Malala Yousafzai's book 'I Am Malala', calling teen activist 'a tool of Western powers' | National PostThe Complexities of I Am Malala Criticism: An Analysis, from BookeysCensoring Malala - Harvard Political ReviewFinally, we referenced these episodes of The Rogue Librarians, check them out! Episode 52. Fahrenheit 451 (Part 1: Why It's Banned)Episode 53. Fahrenheit 451 (Part 2 : Close Reading)Episode 63. Sold (Part 1: Why It's Banned)Episode 64. Sold (Part 2: Close Reading)

In Part 2 of Cemetery Boys we do a close reading of the book.  There are generally a few spoilers, but trust me, there is so much more to discover in the book! Cemetery Boys is a young adult urban fantasy novel written by Latinx American author Aiden Thomas. Published in 2020, this is  Thomas’s debut  novel.  It became the first book by a transgender author featuring a trans character to be on the New York Times Bestseller List.  It received starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher’s Weekly, who also named it the best book of the year. As did NPR and Barnes and Noble. Links mentioned in the podcast: “Cemetery Boys: A whimsical celebration of Queer Latinidad,” published in OutWrite NewsmagazineRogue Librarians, Episode 70. Cemetery Boys (Part 1: Why It’s Banned) We also found this fun playlist on Spotify called The Cemetery Boys Soundtrack.  Enjoy! 

In this Part 1 episode we discuss the book Cemetery Boys, by Aiden Thomas.  In Part 1 we discuss why the book is banned, share some context to help understand the book, and give our assessment of why it’s worth reading.  Cemetery Boys is a young adult urban fantasy novel written by Latinx American author Aiden Thomas. Published in 2020, this is  Thomas’s debut  novel.  It became the first book by a transgender author featuring a trans character to be on the New York Times Bestseller List.  It received starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher’s Weekly, who also named it the best book of the year. As did NPR and Barnes and Noble. Today’s banned bit was about the ALA’s Webinar “How Faith Communities and Librarians Can Advocate for the Freedom to Read.” which took place on November 5, 2025.We found information on why the book was challenged at the Port City Daily’s article “41 books will come off Pender County Schools shelves while they undergo review”, and on the book resume provided by publisher Swoon Reads. We found this gem on The U.S. House of Representative’s web site in connection with a meeting,  most likely in reference to “House Resolution 733.  Expressing concern about the spreading problem of book banning and the proliferation of threats to freedom of expression in the United States.”If you’d like to read more about Aidan Thomas and the book, we referenced the following interviews:  'I’m more interested in what comes next': Aiden Thomas talks 'Cemetery Boys' and writing the trans Latinx identity,  by Nivea Serrao on syfy.com “Interview: Aiden Thomas, Author of Cemetery Boys,” by Alexx @ Enthralled BookwormFinally, we referenced Episode 67 of Rogue Librarians, Interview with Shannon Watters and Branden Boyer White.  It’s a great episode, go listen to it!

In Part 2 of our discussion of 1984 by George Orwell, we were inspired by Harry Potter and the Sacred Text to use the sacred reading practice, Lectio Divinia. We modeled our discussion after the “sacred reading” format used by Casper ter Kuile, Vanessa Zoltan and Matthew Potts in their podcast. Here is the link to their webpage, which explains the process in more detail.Harry Potter and the Sacred TextWe highly recommend you give them a listen!

We’re celebrating Banned Books Week by reading 1984 by George Orwell.  In Part 1, we discuss how this classic tale of censorship taken to the nth degree ended up being one of the most banned books of all time.  Here are a few links to articles mentioned in the episode. Banned Bits references the article Baker County Library gives away copies of Orwell’s ‘1984’ as part of anti-censorship campaign in the Baker City Herald.When Was *1984* Banned? 7 Shocking Censorship Moments (2025) 📚 - Book Summary ReviewPlease stop comparing things to 1984, by Rachel Klein on electricliterature.com

It’s fall and we are ready to get in a spooky Halloween mood.  In this episode we interview the delightful duo Shannon Watters and Branden Boyer-White, co-creators of the YA Graphic Novel series Hollow.  The books are beautifully illustrated by Berenice Nelle and take place in Sleepy Hollow where a group of teens discover the secret of the Headless Horseman.  The first book, Hollow, was published in 2022, and the second, Woman in White, on July 30, 2025.Shannon Watters is the co-creator and co-writer of the award-winning hit comic book series Lumberjanes. She is also a former senior editor and the former head of the BOOM! Box line at BOOM! Studios, the imprint behind critically acclaimed comics and graphic novels like Giant Days, Lumberjanes, Fence, Goldie Vance, Heavy Vinyl, and many others.Branden Boyer-White is an award-winning fiction writer whose work has appeared in print and online in numerous publications. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from Arizona State University, and Hollow was her first venture into graphic storytelling. She re-reads The Legend of Sleepy Hollow every Halloween.They can be found at their respective Instagram accounts @shanito and @bboyerwhite and at  brandenboyerwhite.com  and shannonwatters.com.Shannon named the The Babysitters Club, by Ann M. Martin and Bone, a series of graphic novels by Jeff Smith, as early influences.  Branden showed her spooky cred early citing Goosebumps by R.L. Stine as a major influence on her journey to becoming a writer.Also mentioned in the interview are the Rabbit Ears Version of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and the novelist (and friend of the authors) Adrienne Celt.

In this episode we interview author Khadijah VanBrakle about her second book, My Perfect Family, which came out on August 26th.  Khadijah is a Muslim woman of color, born and raised in Canada to American parents. She writes coming-of-age stories featuring Black American Muslim teens.  Her debut novel, Fatima Tate Takes The Cake was published in 2023.  You can find Khadijah at her website, https://www.khadijahvanbrakle.com/ and on Instagram and Threads @kadijahvanbrakle. Below are links to some of the things we talk about in the episode:Books Are You There God It’s Me Margaret, by Judy BlumeForever, by Judy BlumeBlubber, by Judy BlumeSpeak. By Laurie Halse AndersonAll the Bright Places by Jennifer NivenMonday’s Not Coming by Tiffany D. JacksonYou Truly Assumed, by Leila SabreenAllegedly, by Tiffany D. JacksonGrown, by Tiffany D. JacksonI Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez Black Boy Joy, 17 Stories Celebrating Black Boyhood, edited by Kwame MbaliaStory Genius: How to Use Brain Science to Go Beyond Outlining and Write a Riveting Novel (Before You Waste Three Years Writing 327 Pages That Go Nowhere), by Lisa CronIndependent Bookstores in AlbuquerquePage 1 Books BookworksRogue Librarians EpisodesAre You There God It’s Me Margaret. (Part 1: Why It’s Banned)Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret. (Part 2: Close Reading)

In this special episode we interview freelance writer Kaila Yu on the publication of her first book, Fetishized:  A Reckoning With Yellow Fever, Feminism, and Beauty.  Kaila has written for The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Rolling Stone, CNN, Glamour, and more. Formerly, she was a model and the lead singer for the all–Asian American female rock band Nylon Pink.Below are links to some of the things we discuss in the interview:BooksLove Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It by Kamal Ravikant Joy Luck Club by Amy TanMemoirs of a Geisha by Arthur GoldenEleanor and Park by Rainbow RowellArticleThe Children Of Porn Hub by Nicholas Kristof, an opinion piece published December 4, 2020 in The New York TimesMediaThe Perfect Couple Pretty Woman AnoraTo learn more about Kaila YuWebpage:  kailayu.comInstagram: kailayuFacebook:  Kaila YuNylon Pink Spotify Page

In this episode we discuss Patricia McCormick’s beautiful and heartbreaking Book, Sold.  The book is written in poetic vignettes and follows the story of Lakshme, a Nepalese girl who is sold into prostitution.  Join us as we discuss how McCormick brought her characters to life and humanized them despite their dehumanizing situation.  We took inspiration for our conversation from the  Book Resume provided by Unite Against Banned Books.   For a discussion of why the book has been banned, listen to “Sold Episode 1: Why It’s Banned.” 

In this episode we discuss why the book Sold, by Patricia McCormick, appears in ALA’s Top 10 most challenged books of 2024.Here are some links relevant to our conversation:About Patricia McCormick and the bookPatricia McCormick’s Web page for the SoldUnite Against Banned Books.  Book Resume:SoldInformation on why Sold has been banned. Texas Freedom to Read Project. Information on human traffickingInternational Labor Organization.  “50 million people worldwide in modern slavery”International Justice Mission:  “Sex Trafficking”National Human Trafficking Hotline:   Phone:  888-373-7888 text: 233733. Information on our Banned Bits SegmentArticle from the Oregon Capital Chronical:  “Oregon ‘freedom to read’ library bill heads to governor’s desk” The article references Oregon Senate Bill 1098

Join us for our discussion with Melissa Kantor about her newest book, Biology Lessons.  Melissa wrote the book in response to the Dobbes Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v Wade.  Below are a few links to things discussed in the podcast.  Supreme Court Case Roe v WadeSupreme Court Case Dobbes v Jackson Women’s Health Organization  Here is a link to a documentary about the original Jane Collective in Chicago, it’s an HBO film called The Janes.   I could not find an active website for the revival group, We are Jane, but here is a link to their site on The Way Back Machine.  I also found this NPR article from 2022.  Planned ParenthoodLegal FAQ from Texas State Law Library. Information on teens and REAL ID can be found on this TSA  website. Here is an article on the license plate trackers in Texas.Tracked across state lines: Texas sheriff's use of license plate data raises alarmsFinally, Melissa’s favorite books were:It’s Okay If You Don’t Love Me, By Norma KleinForever, by Judy Blume

In this episode, we discuss The Family Book by Todd Parr.  We’ve combined our usual 2 episode format since the book is so short.  Here are the sources referenced in our Banned Bits segment.Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt Briefs Members of the Media, May 09, 2025 - statement on Carla Hayden is at minute 27:30Fired librarian of Congress on losing history during Trump 2.0 | GBH News RootedLDF Denounces Trump Administration’s Cruel and Unjust Firing of Librarian of Congress Carla D. Hayden Here are sources for the information on why The Family Book is bannedWQAD News:  Controversial Decision in Erie Gathering National AttentionTodd Parr’s WebsiteLGBTQ Nation: Out Author Todd Parr wrote one of the most banned children’s books.  He still believes in Kindess

Milk & Honey Part 2: In this episode, we discuss Rupi Kaur’s beautiful and emotional work, choosing poems to illustrate the different sections of the book as well as the many themes and motifs that run through the poems.  While doing so, we digress quite a bit, as we do.  Here are some of the books, music, and television we related to Kaur’s work. Blog:  Discover Rupi Kaur’s Poems: A Deep Dive into Inspiration, Understanding, and Writing Guidance  By Evelyn SterlingBuffy the Vampire Slayer, Season 5 episode 15, “I Was Made to Love You,” and episode 16, “The Body.” The Missing Piece Meets the Big O, by Shel Silverstein“As Is,” by Ani DiFranco “I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can),” by Taylor Swift “Tailor,” by Anais Mitchell

milk and honey Part 1:  Why It’s Banned  In this episode we discover why Rupi Kaur’s book of poetry, milk and honey, consistently makes lists of banned books. Kaur self-published milk and honey in November of 2014 and it was later picked up by publisher Andrews McMeel.  According to their web site, the book spent more than three years on the New York Times bestseller list.   It’s been published in over 40 languages and has sold over 6 million copies globally.  The magazine, The New Republic, named Rupi Kaur the “writer of the decade.”  milk and honey has been targeted by book banners, particularly in Missouri and Texas, due to its exploration of themes like love, trauma, and sexual assault. Primarily, the book has been challenged in school libraries. Some parents and some officials claim concern about discussions of sexual assault in the book.Our Banned Bits segment features the book Banned Together: Our Fight for Readers’ Rights, By Ashley Hope Perez, here is a link to our  Bookshop.org store, and because that link wasn’t working I was writing this, here is one from Barnes & Noble.  Check out our interviews with two of the book’s contributors:Rogue Librarians – Bonus: Alana K. Arnold , 11/21/23  Rogue Librarians – Out of Darkness: Interview With Ashley Hope Perez, 2/28/2023, For More information on Rupi Kaur, you can visit her web site at rupikaur.com or check out her instagram @rupikaur_

Hold on, Sam Helmick is coming.  In this episode of Rogue Librarians, we speak with Sam Helmick, president-elect of the American Library Association, for a second time.  We explore the many challenges facing libraries, the upcoming ALA Annual Conference, and ways you can advocate for your library.Here are links to some things we talk about in the interview:Stand Up For Libraries: an ALA program where you can donate to support libraries.Show Up For Libraries: an ALA web page that suggests ways to advocate for your local library.Free People Read Freely Summit: an event that took place at the Library of Congress in September of 2024. The Waking: a poem by Theodore RoethkeLiteral:  a poem by Ani DiFranco which you can find in her book Verses. Hold On, I’m Coming: a song by Sam and DaveBanned Together, edited by Ashley Hope PerezLet them, by Mel Robbinsmilk and honey, by Rupi KaurSam Helmick’s contact information:@geometric rabbit  or @shelmick on Instagram@samhelmick on Bluesky@samhelmick on Facebook“I wake to sleep and take my waking slowI learn by going where I have to go”                                                 ~Theodore Roethke

In this episode, we do a close reading of Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Mist and Fury. We discuss our personal histories with romance novels, the evolution of romantic tropes, and the implications of freedom and control in relationships as depicted in the book. We explore themes such as patriarchy, agency, empowerment, consent, and sexuality within the context of the story. 

In this episode, we discuss Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Mist and Fury. In addition to discussing why the book has been banned, we touch on some history of the Romance Novel, and the new hybrid genre Romantasy.   Today’s Banned Bit, comes to us from School Library Journal in their article Librarians and Allies Must Act to Secure the Future of Libraries and Intellectual Freedom |”The resources we reference in this episode include:State and local governments | USAGov List of U.S. state library associations - WikipediaMaterial Girls Season 1, Episode 6: Bridgerton X Reading the Romance with Vanessa Zoltan Hot & Bothered Harry Potter and the Sacred Text

In this episode, we delve into part two of our discussion on Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell. We share some school bus hijinx and the transformative power of love. The conversation highlights themes of bullying, body image, and the importance of consent in young relationships, all while emphasizing the emotional depth and relatability of the characters' experiences. 

In this episode, we discuss Rainbow Rowell’s book Eleanor & Park, why it’s banned, and the controversy over Korean-American representation in the novel. Our banned bit today is about the Department of Education’s Press Release entitled, “U.S. Department of Education Ends Biden’s Book Ban Hoax.”  Other articles referenced during our discussion include:  “The importance of representation,” by Krystal Jagoo from Verywellmind.com “The Problem with Eleanor & Park,” by Chantal Cheung from the Northeastern University Political Review “Is 'Eleanor & Park' racist? Movie announcement renews criticism” by Saul Marquez from bookstacked.com “What’s your opinion on Eleanor & Park”, Lisa Maxwell’s response to Ellen Oh.

In this episode we do a close reading of Fahrenheit 451, tracing Montag’s journey from book burner to hunted dissident and reader.  We had so much fun digging into the nuance of Bradbury’s timeless classic.  We hope you enjoy our conversation.

In this episode we discuss Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451. We discuss when and why it has been banned, its historical significance, and why we think it’s worth reading.  We explore the benefits of reading challenging literature for adolescents, the historical context of the book's reception, and the irony of its censorship. Today’s Banned Bit:  “How teens benefit from being able to read 'disturbing' books that some want to ban,” by Gay Ivy

Show Notes:In this conversation, Sam Helmick discusses the upcoming Lib Learn X conference, the evolving role of AI in libraries, and the importance of libraries as community anchor institutions. Links:Info on LibLearnX 2025Sam Helmick’s SocialsBlue Sky:  @samhelmic.bsky.socialInstagram and Twitter:  @GeometricRabbit

In this episode of the Rogue Librarians we do a close reading and discussion of  the graphic memoir 'Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic,' by Alison Bechdel. We explore personal reflections on death, the complexities of family relationships, and the themes of sexuality and identity as portrayed in the book. We highlight significant scenes and the emotional depth of Bechdel's storytelling, emphasizing the interplay between tragedy and comedy in her narrative. 

Fun Home Part 1: Why It's BannedIn this episode of the Rogue Librarians we discuss the graphic memoir 'Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic,' by Alison Bechdel.  We look at why the book has been banned and discuss the pros and cons.  For a full discussion of the book, listen to the next episode. Our new segment, Banned Bits: News Bits from the Ban-o-sphere discusses the article “Re-inventing the book ban” by Victoria Sutton  and Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) and the book “Colonization and the Wampanoag Story,”  by Linda Coombs.We also thought you might like to know more about the Broadway Musical “Fun Home”,  and its accompanying soundtrack.  Sound Effect by Vlad Krotov from Pixabay

In this engaging conversation, Bethanie Finger discusses her journey as a writer and librarian, sharing insights into her book 'More Than Life,' the first book in her debut trilogy. Bethanie discusses her writing process, particularly the extensive research involved in creating historical fantasy worlds. She delves into the themes of class structures, gender roles, and the influence of mythology on her work. You can find out more about Bethanie Finger and her projects here:Website:  https://www.bethaniefingerauthor.com/home Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethaniefingerauthor/?ref=1der1 Podcast: https://princekaifanpod.podbean.com/ 

In this episode of the Rogue Librarians we discuss The Perks of Being a Wallflower, by Stephen Chbosky, along with special guest Simon. The book spent over a year on the bestseller list, and has continued to find readers decades after its publication in 1999.We discuss favorite quotes, scenes, and ideas presented in the book, including the importance of community, the way mental health is viewed in our society, and what it means to be a coming of age novel. Please listen to our twenty-ninth episode for a discussion of why this book has been banned.Materials referenced include:The podcast: Material Girls Dopamine v Health CapitalismThe movie LadyBirdAnd, from the litreactor blog, “Yes, I Read The 111-Page Moms For Liberty Book Ban Document” by Peter Derk. Thanks to Chris for our music, to Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, to Dorothy for our audio editing, and to our patrons for their financial support! Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

In this episode of the Rogue Librarians we discuss The Perks of Being a Wallflower, by Stephen Chbosky, along with special guest Simon.  We delve into why the book has remained one of the most banned and challenged books on the ALA lists.  We added a new segment where we give a little recent info on the state of book banning.  We discussed the article. “Not even Little Free Libraries are safe from book bans. ‹ Literary Hub (lithub.com)”We also referenced the LitReactor column, “Yes I Read The 111 Page Moms For Liberty Book Ban Document,” by Peter Derk.  

In this episode of Rogue Librarians, we discuss the importance of voting to combat the ongoing issue of book banning in the United States. The conversation covers recent legislative developments, state-specific ballot measures affecting libraries, and the significance of local elections in combating censorship. We provide information on the congressional resolution condemning book bansDiscuss several state specific issues on the ballot that we found through Libraries2024.org including: Utah’s Amendment A (Vote No), North Dakota’s Measure 4 (Vote No), Kentucky’s Constitutional Amendment 2 (Vote No), and California’s Proposition 5 (Vote Yes).We tell you how to learn more about the governance behind libraries through the ACLU’s - School Governance 101 page  We offer a variety of interactive web sites to help you find out about items on your local ballots, including issues around book banning and more.  Here is the list:Vote 411AARPEverylibrary.orgBallotpedia.orgWe also offer suggestions about how to stay abreast of what’s happening in Book Banning Politics at the following websites:ALA.org-Office for Intellectual FreedomALA Banned & Challenged BooksALA Book RésumésBook Riot - Literary Activism NewsletterEvery Library: Political ActivityUnite Against Book BansPen AmericaHere is the link to the episode of On The Media that we recommended in the Intro.The segment on book banning is at timecode [39:36] From their show notes: “Host Brooke Gladstone interviews Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson, whose children’s picture book,  And Tango Makes Three, is among the long list of banned titles across the country. Hear why they’re suing in Florida to make their book — and others — accessible again.”

We had so much fun talking with author Nadine Pinede about her debut YA novel-in-verse, When the Mapou Sings. Nadine is a poet, author, editor, translator, and education consultant. The daughter of Haitian immigrants, Nadine is the first Rhodes scholar of Haitian descent and earned her doctorate in Philosophy of Education. When the Mapou Sings will be published by Candlewick Press on December 3rd, 2024 and has already been named a Junior Library Guild selection and a Most Anticipated Book of the Fall by Kirkus Reviews.The novel takes place in the 1930s, just after the end of the American Occupation of Haiti. Lucille’s schooling is interrupted when she complains that her favorite Mapou tree has been cut down, which is an illegal act. To keep her safe from her village's corrupt section chief, she is sent to Port-au-Prince, where her employer hobnobs with Haitian intellectuals. Lucille eventually finds herself working for Zora Neale Hurston as she conducts her anthropological study of Haiti, Tell My Horse.  In the interview, we discussed Pinede’s literary influences, the challenges of writing in verse, and the importance of historical context in literature. The discussion also touches on misconceptions about Haiti, the significance of food and culture in storytelling, and, of course, the significance of the Mapou tree. Pinede also highlights Zora Neale Hurston's anthropological pursuits in Haiti.The conversation was rich with references to other books, films, and websites. We’ve attempted to link you to all of them here.  To learn more about Nadine Pinede, please visit her website: NadinePinede.com or Instagram: @nadinepinede.For more information on Haiti, check out her website or the Haitian Studies Association Website.For the recording of Nadine's event with the Zora Neale Hurston Trust, please visit their Instagram page.Books MentionedHaiti Noir, edited by Edwidge Danticat (includes a story by Nadine Pinede)White Rose by Kip Wilson (another book in verse)Haiti Fights Back: The Life and Legacy of Charlemagne Péralte by Yveline Alexis The Uses of Haiti by Paul Farmer   Brother, I’m dying By Edwidge Danticat Tell My Horse: Voodoo and Life in Haiti and Jamaica by Zora Neale Hurston (anthropological study of Haiti)Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston (novel written while in Haiti)Dust Tracks on a Road by Zora Neale Hurston (her autobiography)Popo and Fifina: Children of Haiti by Arna Bontemps and Langston Hughes The Magic Island by Richard Seabrook (Exploitative book - sensationalized Haitian traditions, started the fascination in U.S. with Voodoo and Zombies)Black Shack Alley by Joseph Zobel The Serpent and the Rainbow: A Harvard Scientist's Astonishing Journey into the Secret Societies of Haitian Voodoo, Zombies, and Magic by Anthropologist Wade Davis (also sensationalized)The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne FrankFreedom Soup by Tammy CharlesFilms MentionedThe Forgotten Occupation: Jim Crow Goes to Haiti, directed by Alain Martin (imdb link)  Sugar Cane Ally, directed by Euzhan Palcy (based on the book Black Shack Alley)The Serpent and the Rainbow, directed by Wes Craven (further sensationalized the work of Wade Davis, classified as Horror) (imdb link)  Writing Workshops MentionedNorthwest Institute of Literary Arts Whole Novel WorkshopThanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians⁠⁠

In this special bonus episode, we explore various books that address censorship and the importance of fighting for the freedom to read. We emphasize how reading banned books affects personal growth and societal awareness and discuss the ongoing challenges of censorship in contemporary culture.Books discussed include: Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller (Author) Banned Book by Jonah Winter (Author) and Gary Kelley (Illustrator) The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain by Peter Sís (Author, Illustrator) Banned Book Club by Kim Hyun Sook (Author), Ryan Estrada (Author), and Hyung-Ju Ko (Illustrator) Library Wars by Kiiro Yumi (Author, Illustrator), Hiro Arikawa (Contributor) Ninja Librarians by Jen Swann Downey (Author)Thanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians⁠

In honor of Banned Books Week (September 22-28, 2024), join us in celebrating the freedom to read and taking action to support librarians, teachers, and authors. In this episode, we share some recommendations from the ALA (American Library Association) and our plans for our third season.Some of the resources mentioned in this episode: Banned Books Week: https://bannedbooksweek.org Some of the ALA's suggestions to get involved this week: https://www.ala.org/bbooks/bannedbooksweek/ideasandresources/activity Banned Books Week webinars: https://www.ala.org/bbooks/events Unite Against Book Bans: https://uniteagainstbookbans.org PEN America: https://pen.org/banned-books-week-2024 Authors Against Book Bans: https://www.authorsagainstbookbans.comThanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians⁠

We were thrilled to interview librarian and author Amanda Jones. Amanda Jones has been an educator for twenty-three years. She has served as president of the Louisiana Association of School Librarians and won numerous awards for her work in school libraries, including School Library Journal Librarian of the Year. A sought-after keynote speaker, Amanda is a frequent volunteer for state and national library associations, as well as founder of the Livingston Parish Library Alliance and founding member of Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship. She lives in Livingston Parish, Louisiana. Amanda’s book, That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America, comes out on August 27, 2024.In the interview, we discussed how Amanda became a school librarian, decided to speak up against censorship at her local public library in 2022 and dealt with the resulting harassment, chose to sue two of the harassers for defamation, and educated herself about injustices. We also learned how she has been taking action with other librarians recently and discussed ways that we can take action in our own communities.To learn more about Amanda Jones, please visit:  her website: librarianjones.com ⁠X/Twitter: @abmack33 Linktree: ThatLibrarian⁠⁠⁠⁠Thanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We were thrilled to interview Gayle Forman about her new novel, Not Nothing. Award-winning author and journalist Gayle Forman has written several bestselling novels, including those in the Just One Day series, Where She Went, and the #1 New York Times bestseller If I Stay, which has been translated into more than forty languages and was adapted into a major motion picture. Her first middle grade novel, Frankie & Bug, was a New York Times Best Children’s Book of 2021. She lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her family.In the interview, we discussed Gayle's involvement in Authors Against Book Bans, how she developed her ideas for Not Nothing and chose to write it as a middle grade novel, why she wanted to portray characters rising to the occasion of their lives, and why it's important to her to discuss the Holocaust and emphasize the importance of love.To learn more about Gayle Forman, please visit:  her website: www.gayleforman.com ⁠her resources for educators related to Not Nothing: gayleforman.com/not-nothing-for-educators her Instagram: @gayleforman⁠⁠⁠⁠Thanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We discuss ⁠Crank⁠ by Ellen Hopkins, which was a New York Times bestseller and was first published in 2004. Crank was also 38th on the ALA's list of the 100 most challenged books from 2010 to 2019, and it was number 4 on the top 10 list in 2010 and number 10 in 2022.In this episode, we discuss our opinions of the book's characters, themes, and significance. Please listen to our twenty-seventh episode for a discussion of why this book has been banned.Thanks to Chris for our music, to Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, to Dorothy for our audio editing, and to our patrons for their financial support! Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We were delighted to be interviewed by Tricia Friedman on her wonderful podcast, Be a Better Ally. We're sharing that episode, "We're Not One Thing," here as well. Please learn more about Be a Better Ally at allyed.org, and listen and subscribe wherever you find your podcasts! Be a Better Ally's "We're Not One Thing" Episode Notes: The conversation revolves around the importance of libraries and the challenges they face, particularly in relation to book banning. The hosts of Rogue Librarians discuss their (amazing) show, which focuses on books that have been banned or challenged, and highlight episodes that they are proud of. They also emphasize the role of libraries as community leaders and the need for advocacy to support them. The conversation touches on the importance of local politics, the rights of the child, and the value of public libraries as free public spaces. The hosts provide suggestions for how the general public can support libraries and advocate against book banning. Libraries play a crucial role in communities, providing resources, programming, and support for people of all ages. They serve as a place for families to gather, for individuals to access information, and for communities to come together. Librarians are essential in connecting people with the resources they need and providing personalized assistance. Funding for libraries is crucial to ensure their continued operation and to support the diverse needs of the community. Reading widely and engaging with books can foster empathy, understanding, and compassion for others. Ready to follow their show? https://www.theroguelibrarians.com/ Listen to the rest of the episode featured here: https://www.theroguelibrarians.com/episodes/episode/d012b098/25-flamer-part-1-why-its-banned

We discuss Crank by Ellen Hopkins, which was a New York Times bestseller and was first published in 2004. Crank was also 38th on the ALA's list of the 100 most challenged books from 2010 to 2019, and it was number 4 on the top 10 list in 2010 and number 10 in 2022.In this episode, we discuss why Crank has been banned, as well as its historical context. We also offer our assessment of its pros and cons. Please listen to our twenty-eighth episode for a close reading of the book.Some of the sources mentioned in this episode: ⁠https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/methamphetamine https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10908000/ https://www.aclusc.org/en/news/heres-what-you-lose-when-you-ban-my-books Thanks to Chris for our music, to Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, to Dorothy for our audio editing, and to our patrons for their financial support! Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We were so excited to interview Rachel Lynn Solomon about her new novel, Past Present Future. Rachel is the New York Times bestselling author of Today Tonight Tomorrow, The Ex Talk, and other romantic comedies for teens and adults. Originally from Seattle, she’s currently navigating expat life in Amsterdam, where she’s on a mission to try as many Dutch sweets as possible. In the interview, we discussed how Rachel decided to write a sequel to Today Tonight Tomorrow, why she chose to write the sequel in dual POV, how she created the characters' voices and arcs, how she decided which romantic details and tropes to include, and how this book is different from a "typical" romance novel.  To learn more about Rachel Lynn Solomon, please visit:  her website: rachelsolomonbooks.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ her Instagram: rlynn_solomon⁠⁠⁠⁠Thanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We were thrilled to have the opportunity to interview Cindy Hohl. Cindy Hohl is the 2023-2024 President-Elect of the American Library Association. Her inauguration is on July 2, 2024, at the end of the ALA Annual Conference and Exhibition. She is a member of the Santee Sioux Nation and works as the director of policy analysis and operational support at the Kansas City Public Library. Cindy spoke with us about her time as the president of the American Indian Library Association, her role as an ALA Spectrum Scholar, her goals for her tenure as president of the ALA, the upcoming ALA Annual Conference, the Freedom to Read Foundation, and the ALA’s current efforts to fight censorship. For more information about Cindy Hohl, please visit her website: cindyforlibraries.com.For more information about the 2024 Annual Conference and Exhibition (June 27-July 2 in San Diego), please visit 2024.alaannual.org.For more information about the American Library Association, the Freedom to Read Foundation, the Unite Against Book Bans Campaign, and other organizations that fight censorship, please visit the links on our website's resources page.Thanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We were so excited to interview Lyn Miller-Lachmann about her new novel, ⁠⁠Eyes O⁠⁠pen. Lyn is an educator, an editor, and an author of young adult and middle grade novels, including Torch, winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, and Moonwalking. Fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, she enjoys traveling to new places and lived part-time in Lisbon, Portugal, for many years. She lives in New York City. In the interview, we discussed how Lyn decided to write a YA novel-in-verse about life in Portugal in the 1960s, conducted her research, created her characters, and focused on the importance of standing up to injustice, the power of poetry, and the resilience of young people.To learn more about Lyn Miller-Lachmann, please visit:  her website: lynmillerlachmann.com (including a link to an educator guide for Eyes Open)⁠⁠⁠ her Instagram: instagram.com/lynmillerlachmann⁠The song at the end of the episode is "Triste Fado," which was recorded in 1939 and is available for public use; it can be found on the Library of Congress website. Thanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We were so excited to interview K.A. Cobell about her debut novel, ⁠Looking for Smoke⁠, which comes out June 4, 2024. K.A. is an enrolled member of the Blackfeet Nation. She currently lives in the Pacific Northwest, where she spends her time writing books, chasing her kids through the never-ending rain, and scouring the inlet beaches for sand dollars and hermit crabs.In the interview, we discussed how K.A. decided to write a thriller that focused on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) movement, selected the four main characters and wrote it from their perspectives, portrayed the characters' identities and complex emotions, and displayed the resilience of the Blackfeet people. To learn more about K.A. Cobell, please visit:  her website: kacobell.com (which includes her novel's educators' guide and resources about MMIW)⁠ her Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/ka_cobellThanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We discuss ⁠⁠⁠⁠Flamer⁠ by Mike Curato, which was first published in 2020. This graphic novel received a Lambda Literary Award, which recognizes excellent LGBTQ+ literature, as well as several starred reviews. Flamer was fifth on the ALA's list of the most challenged books in 2023 and fourth in 2022.In this episode, we discuss our opinions of the book's characters, themes, and significance. Please listen to our twenty-fifth episode for a discussion of why this book has been banned.Thanks to Chris for our music, to Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, to Dorothy for our audio editing, and to our patrons for their financial support! Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

Happy National Library Week! We are sharing a song by Dharmika, an artist and fellow advocate, called "I'll Read That Next." You can find "I'll Read That Next" on Spotify and other streaming platforms: https://open.spotify.com/track/0XBI080NU6Sz9pNJYy1zIF.To find Dharmika, please visit her social media accounts @dharmikamusic: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dharmikamusic TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dharmikamusic Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dharmikamusicAdditionally, this week, the ALA released its list of the top 10 most challenged books in 2023. You can find more information about the books here: https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/top10. We have already discussed four of the books on the list and will discuss more soon. Thanks for joining us in fighting censorship!

We discuss ⁠Flamer by Mike Curato, which was first published in 2020. This graphic novel received a Lambda Literary Award, which recognizes excellent LGBTQ+ literature, as well as several starred reviews. Flamer was fifth on the ALA's list of the most challenged books in 2023 and fourth in 2022.In this episode, we discuss why Flamer has been banned. We also offer our assessment of its pros and cons. Please listen to our twenty-sixth episode for a close reading of the book.Some of the sources mentioned in this episode: ⁠https://pen.org/mike-curato-flamer-interview https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/flamer ⁠https://www.jstor.org/stable/40364966 https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-69392-3_16 https://www.npr.org/2020/10/22/926285834/flamer-offers-real-hope-not-just-rainbows-to-queer-kids Thanks to Chris for our music, to Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, to Dorothy for our audio editing, and to our patrons for their financial support! Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

We were so excited to interview F.T. Lukens about their new book, Otherworldly, which comes out April 2, 2024. F.T. is a New York Times bestselling author of YA speculative fiction, including the novels Spell Bound, So This Is Ever After, and In Deeper Waters.In the interview, we discussed how F.T. created a queer normative world and incorporated particular myths and ideas, portrayed the characters and relationships in certain ways, and explored concepts like faith, skepticism, and agency. We really enjoyed talking with them.To learn more about F.T. Lukens, please visit:  their website: www.ft-lukens.com their Instagram: instagram.com/ftlukensThanks to Chris for our music, Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, Dorothy for her editing skills, and our patrons for their financial support. Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Please consider supporting our podcast on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠. We appreciate your support! Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians

Thanks to Heather for joining us again to discuss ⁠Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.⁠ by Judy Blume, which was first published in 1970. Blume's popular novel has frequently been challenged since then; in the 1990s, it was the 60th most challenged book during that decade. In this episode, we share our favorite scenes and book covers and discuss why the book was meaningful to us. Please listen to the twenty-third episode for our discussion of why this book has been banned.Thanks to Chris for our music, to Heather and Lizzie for their assistance, to Dorothy for our audio editing, and to our patrons for their financial support! Please visit our website for a⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠transcript⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠of this episode. If you would like to join our conversation, please visit ⁠⁠theroguelibrarians.com⁠⁠ or follow us on social media. Linktree: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@roguelibrarianspod⁠⁠ Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/roguelibrarians