In a shocking display of censorship, two children’s book authors were recently silenced at a San Ramon elementary school while trying to discuss their book about book banning. Joanna Ho and Caroline Kusin-Pritchard were preparing to present their new book “The Day the Books Disappeared” when school officials abruptly told them they could not discuss banned or queer books.

The authors’ presentation, which included 45 slides primarily featuring their book’s pages and informational graphics about nationwide book banning, was deemed inappropriate for students aged four to nine. When Ho and Kusin-Pritchard refused to censor their presentation, they were asked to leave the school.

“Our book was literally written because of book banning; we could not leave that out of our presentation,” Ho told local media. The school district claimed the students were too young to understand book banning, a statement the authors strongly dispute.

The incident highlights a growing trend of book censorship in the Bay Area, particularly in Contra Costa County. Local chapters of groups like Moms for Liberty have been putting pressure on public schools and libraries to remove books discussing race, sexuality, and gender.

Kusin-Pritchard emphasized the broader context, stating, “Book banning is real, it’s happening everywhere, it’s happening in California”. Their book cleverly illustrates book banning through a narrative where a character makes books disappear based on personal preferences, ultimately losing access to books they enjoy.

This event underscores the ongoing battle for intellectual freedom and diverse representation in educational spaces. By attempting to silence discussions about important social issues, schools risk limiting students’ exposure to critical perspectives and understanding of the world.

The authors’ commitment to their message serves as a powerful reminder that censorship can be countered through persistence, integrity, and a dedication to open dialogue.