Today, Explained

“To [REDACTED] a Mockingbird”

Jul 15, 2022
Guest Clint Smith, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author focused on American history, teams up with Laura Jadid, a journalist covering conservative movements. They delve into the alarming rise of book bans in the U.S., discussing how these measures attempt to erase critical conversations about race and sexuality. Smith argues that banning books to avoid discomfort can hinder understanding. They also reflect on the importance of inclusive literature and its implications for historical education and community identity.
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INSIGHT

Common Themes in Banned Books

  • Banned books often feature protagonists of color or LGBTQ+ themes.
  • While often framed as addressing obscenity, the bans disproportionately target these groups.
INSIGHT

Book Bans as Culture War

  • Book bans serve as a cultural war front for conservative issues.
  • They connect to anxieties around obscenity, critical race theory, and LGBTQ+ identities.
ANECDOTE

Most Banned Book

  • Gender Queer, a memoir about gender identity, is currently the most banned book.
  • It's been removed from at least 30 school libraries and classrooms.
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