As you can tell from the cover, this picture book takes on the topic of banned books in a humorous way. We may never know what the original title was, since it has been covered by a BANNED sticker. The friendly directions that tell us "Turn Here" are crossed out, and someone has added the admonition "DO NOT!" There is even a X crossing out the unicorn's horn. Gasp!
A foreword explains what a banned book is. "It's when one group of people decides that no one should be allowed to read a certain book, and they try to remove that book from libraries and schools." The story then goes on to show dangerous banning books can be. What if there are giraffes in a book, but the hippos object? Out with the giraffes. Or what if there is delicious avocado, but there is "someone who thinks avocaos are GROSS?!" Okay, no more avocados.
On and on go the examples, absurd and hilarious, of things that might need to be banned. Robots on rollerskates? Birthday cake? (Someone might not get the slice they want.) And if the horses are offended by the unicorns' horns...You guessed it. Banned!
If your library or school is dealing with book challenges, this might be just the touch of humor you need to make it through. And if you have students asking you what a book ban is, let them try this on for size.
I read an advance copy provided by the publisher for review purposes. And I truly appreciate the dedication: "This book is dedicated to all the librarians & educators around the worl who work tirelessly to ensure that kids & grown-ups have access to the books that matter to them." Thank you!
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