You Can't Say That!: Writers for Young People Talk about Censorship, Free Expression, and the Stories They Have to Tell (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780763690366)

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 children's series run afoul of would-be censors, one for its scatological humor, the other because it's 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 children's and young adult authors speak out about what it's like to have your work banned or challenged in America today. Prompted by Leonard S. Marcus's insightful questions, they discuss why their books have faced censorship--both blatant and "soft"--how the challenges have or haven't 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 people's rights.

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

Author: Leonard S. Marcus
ISBN-10: 0763690368
ISBN-13: 9780763690366
Publisher: Candlewick Press (MA)
Language: English
Published: 09/16/2021
Pages: 240
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.70lbs
Size: 9.37h x 6.85w x 1.02d

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 06/01/2021
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 07/01/2021
Horn Book Magazine 07/01/2021 pg. 153
School Library Journal 07/01/2021 pg. 84
Publishers Weekly 07/26/2021
Booklist 08/01/2021 pg. 44