Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 07/01/2021 Gr 7 Up—This work is a compilation of conversations Marcus had with writers of children's and YA titles that have been included on the American Library Association's lists of most banned books. Authors featured include some of the biggest names in youth literature such as R.L. Stine, Angie Thomas, Dav Pilkey, and Katherine Paterson. The book covers well-known, frequently banned titles such as Heather Has Two Mommies, It's Perfectly Normal, and Bridge to Terabithia, and some that readers might not expect, such as the works of Matt de la Peña and Meg Medina. Marcus prefaces each conversation with a brief, interesting summary of the author's life and work. Conversations cover the authors' experiences of how their books came to be banned and their reactions, often including stories of their involvement in fighting the censorship. Each conversation is frank and utterly engrossing. Familiarity with the banned books discussed is not necessary to be absorbed in the discussions, which will certainly send readers to seek out the titles. Librarians and lovers of youth literature will feel like they are a part of conversations between old friends and gain new understanding into the value of their everyday work. Those studying censorship will find important primary sources and gain useful insight on how harmful censorship can be to young lives. Marcus also includes a concise, informative history of censorship and banned books in the United States. VERDICT This important work is highly recommended for all libraries serving teens and scholars.—Karen Bilton, Franklin Township P.L., NJ - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 08/01/2021 *Starred Review* Like cockroaches, there will always be censors. Sternly telling us “You can’t say that,” they make it their business to challenge free expression and the unfettered sharing of stories. Acknowledging that reality, the always-erudite Marcus has interviewed 13 leading authors of books for young readers—both children and young adults—about their own experiences of censorship. His subjects range widely, from Dav Pilkey to Katherine Paterson, David Levithan to R. L. Stine, Angie Thomas to Lesléa Newman, and beyond. Marcus begins his book with an informative and enlightening introduction that charts the history of censorship and then proceeds to the interviews. Each of them is prefaced with a portrait and a generous contextual introduction. The scope of each interview that follows often extends beyond discussion of individual experiences of censorship to conversations about the authors’ lives and their bodies of work. Marcus has clearly done his homework, his questions and comments reflecting wide reading of each of his subject’s work. Their answers are unfailingly eloquent and insightful. A common theme of the pieces is praise for the courageous librarians and teachers who have risen to local challenges, joining the authors in boldly asserting that you can say that. Marcus’ book is essential reading for all of those who treasure free speech. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.