At Macmillan Publishers, we deeply believe in the power of books to connect people, amplify diverse voices, create meaningful change, and make a lasting impact in the world. We are committed to combatting book banning and remain steadfast in ensuring everyone has access to read whatever they desire.
In an era where the issue of banned and challenged books continues to provoke heated debates, publishers play an important role as defenders of literary freedom. As book bans and challenges continue to disrupt the literary landscape, publishers stand on the frontlines, defending the right to read and protecting the freedom of expression that fuels creativity and knowledge.
To shed light on this critical issue, we sat down with four of our editors whose books have been banned or challenged. They share their experiences, reflections on book banning, and thoughts on the path forward. Their insights offer a powerful reminder of what’s at stake—and why we must continue the fight for the freedom to read. Below are a few key insights.
Connie Hsu, Editorial Director, Roaring Book Press
Editor of Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story Written by Kevin Noble Maillard; illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
What was your initial reaction when you learned Fry Bread would be banned or challenged, and how has that perspective evolved?
My initial reaction was, unfortunately, that I was not surprised. I knew that Fry Bread and many other books published at Roaring Brook Press and at Macmillan Children's Publishing Group would face scrutiny. Fry Bread is both a celebration of a Native American staple and a critical look at its history. The simple free verse text first begins with a playful description of what fry bread is and then it expands into its significance in Native American history and how its existence is a byproduct of colonialism and the abuse and persecution of Indigenous communities. I knew that there were already rumblings against discussing this true history, this American history, and given the book's acclaim and its strong and steady sales, I felt the censors would be aware of Fry Bread soon enough.
The landscape has shifted. Before, the censors went after books that were already published. Those books were able to gain some press and attention because they were being taken off of shelves, so we could pinpoint what was happening to them. Now, I worry about "quiet" censorship, especially with new books that won't even have a chance to be purchased for schools and libraries because educators and librarians are being pressured to avoid certain topics, cultures, etc.
What are the implications of this ban for freedom of expression and censorship in literature?
We learn from a young age that not telling the truth is lying. Censoring stories that reflect real people and real history is a form of lying. It's lying to young readers, who should be trusted to form their own opinions if you give them access to a variety of books. It's forcing educators, librarians, and other trusted grownups who guide children to lie and hide truths. It's lying to ourselves, to think that we can simply censor information to create the false illusion that some people, cultures, and histories don't exist.
From your view, what message do book bans/challenges send to writers and creatives?
It's meant to be a threat, to silence creators. It's telling them that if they create something that falls outside of the homogenous stories and perspectives that the book banners allow, the creators' careers will suffer. But it goes far beyond that. I've heard from creators who've had their books banned that they're receiving direct threats. Motivated by those campaigning for censorship, some people are now making personal attacks against creators. It's alarming and very disturbing.
Do you believe there is a path forward for this book to reach unrestrained audiences, and what does that path look like?
I am thankful for all the advocacy against book banning, from companies like Macmillan and through the grassroot efforts of educators, librarians, and booksellers. I do think it'll take a long time though. I think we'll need the next generation of readers to read our books, to be inspired, and to have the will to turn the tides for good. But I can be patient.
Fry Bread
A Native American Family Story
by Kevin Noble Maillard; illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
Told in powerful verse by debut author Kevin Noble Maillard, Fry Bread is an evocative story about family, history, culture, and traditions, new and old, illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist Juana Martinez-Neal.
Foyinsi Adegbonmire, Editor, Feiwel & Friends
Editor of Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
What was your initial reaction when you learned Ace of Spades would be banned or challenged, and how has that perspective evolved?
The first time I actually came across news of Ace of Spades getting banned was through a random Tweet, maybe a year after the book came out. I remember being incredibly surprised to see it included in the list of banned books. Before that, I was aware of book banning in a more abstract way, like learning about Fahrenheit 451 in school and conversations bubbling up in-house, but as an editor of commercial children's books, it just hadn't occurred to me that it could happen with anything I worked on—in my mind Ace of Spades deals with real topics but is a twisty thriller at its heart. Thinking about it some more though, it hit me that it's almost "primed" for being banned or challenged due to the themes it tackles. That doesn't make it okay, of course...It's incredibly frustrating!
From your view, what message do book bans/challenges send to writers and creatives?
I think in its most basic form, it sends the message that authors aren't allowed to talk about racism or homophobia/homomisia or abortions or any other "woke/liberal" views, especially if they're making it clear that the traditional way of things may not be the best way. And that messaging has further reaching effects, because you can't tackle a problem if it can't even be acknowledged as one. I'm very glad our team is still willing to acquire and take on books that could be deemed controversial. I don't get a feeling of, "Oh this book could be banned someday so you're not allowed to offer on it."
Do you believe there is a path forward for this book to reach unrestrained audiences, and what does that path look like?
I wish I knew the solution or the perfect path forward; I think all we can really do is keep pushing back while making books available through as many avenues as possible so that if a reader, especially our teen audience, can't access it from their school or public library, they can get it from a bookstore, online, etc. And I'm super encouraged by the knowledge that there are people even more directly on the front lines fighting against book banning/challenges — librarians, teachers, educators, and even Macmillan, along with other publishers!
Ace of Spades
by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
Gossip Girl meets Get Out in Ace of Spades, a YA contemporary thriller by debut author Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé about two students, Devon & Chiamaka, and their struggles against an anonymous bully.
Retha Powers, VP, Executive Editor, Henry Holt & Co
Editor of The Talk by Darrin Bell
What was your initial reaction when you learned The Talk would be banned or challenged, and how has that perspective evolved?
I was stunned at first, though not entirely surprised. As a political cartoonist, Darrin's work has been scrutinized and challenged for its candor and insights. The Talk offers an intimate take on racism and police violence. It's a deeply personal book that has connected with so many readers by illuminating what it's like to be perceived as a threat simply by being a Black person. It also validates this reality for readers who share the same experience. It makes me angry to think that someone would be deprived of reading this book and/or experiencing the comfort that it offers.
What are the implications of this ban for freedom of expression and censorship in literature?
In high school, I was mentored by a journalist who said that when you take away access to a book, you are robbing someone of the opportunity to have thoughts and ideas, and this really stuck with me. Thoughts inspired by reading lead to understanding, empathy, and perhaps even action. Book banning robs people of this potential. The Talk won an Alex Award for being an adult book that appeals to teen readers, which makes any lack of access to this book even more tragic.
From your view, what message do book bans/challenges send to writers and creatives?
I worry that book bans might make some writers less bold and more cautious or avoidant of challenging material. The vitriol from the vocal few can be quite intimidating, especially when you consider that writers want to connect with readers above all else.
Do you believe there is a path forward for this book to reach unrestrained audiences, and what does that path look like?
Book banning is a deliberate attempt to stop free speech and silence particular voices (disproportionately writers of color and queer writers); there will always be people invested in that. Of course, those who are concerned about this issue—especially members of the community of the book—should continue to push back through legal means and fight to keep books in libraries.
The Talk
by Darin Bell
Through evocative illustrations and sharp humor, Bell examines how The Talk shaped intimate and public moments from childhood to adulthood. While coming of age in Los Angeles—and finding a voice through cartooning—Bell becomes painfully aware of being regarded as dangerous by white teachers, neighbors, and police officers and thus of his mortality.
Grace Kendall, Senior Editor, Farrar Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers
Editor of All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson
What was your initial reaction when you learned All Boys Aren't Blue would be banned or challenged, and how has that perspective evolved?
George's grandmother Nanny used to tell them, "You don't have to get ready if you stay ready." And so George knew instinctively that the book would be banned or challenged years before it was. As much as I wanted George to be wrong, I had learned in our work together to trust their instincts, and so I didn't allow myself the pretty illusion that this special book would come into the world without conflict. At Nanny's behest, I wasn't surprised when the book bans came along. But now, I find myself exhausted by them, as many of my authors do, too. Part of the banner's game plan is to wear people down.
What are the implications of this ban for freedom of expression and censorship in literature?
These book bans create exhaustion at best and PTSD at worst. Gatekeepers like teachers and librarians may begin to unconsciously avoid books that could draw the attention of book banners in order to protect their jobs, their patrons, or their library. It's never just one person that is affected by a book ban, never just one reader who doesn't get to read a book. Even when a community successfully defends against a challenge, the aftermath holds a fear that it will happen again. We're all on edge, then. It's not healthy to work from a place of constant defensiveness. How can authors or librarians do their jobs creatively and to the best of their ability when fear is in the air?
From your view, what message do book bans/challenges send to writers and creatives?
That the book banners see them as less than human.
Do you believe there is a path forward for this book to reach unrestrained audiences, and what does that path look like?
Absolutely. All Boys Aren't Blue is a once-in-a-generation book that has allowed people from all backgrounds and ages to see themselves reflected in one person's story. The book is wildly universal, despite its specific expression. Its power can't be restrained—and will never be. We have to constantly battle these challenges, and eventually we will find our way to a cultural norm where book banning is rarer and rarer. But I think legislation will have to be put in place to protect communities from these book bans because I don't think the instinct to ban books (or other forms of art) will ever stop. It's human nature to want to silence something you're afraid of. Of course, that doesn't mean your fear is morally sound or that your reactivity to that fear is noble. These book banners don't get to hurt others because of a perceived—or even imaginary—harm to themselves or a child. That's just nonsense.
All Boys Aren't Blue
by George M. Johnson
In a series of personal essays, prominent journalist and LGBTQIA activist George M. Johnson explores his childhood and adolescence growing up as a gay black man. From the memories of getting his teeth kicked out by bullies at age five, to flea marketing with his loving grandmother, to his first sexual relationships, this young-adult memoir weaves together the trials and triumphs faced by Black queer boys.
