[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Random House in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
Summary
When June’s parents find a school library book in her bag that they think is inappropriate, she’s mortified that her parents are being so overprotective. The idea of them complaining to the librarian is embarrassing! But the idea that her favorite teacher could lose her job over it wasn’t on her radar at all.
But that’s what happens. Ms. Bradshaw is suspended. Then a group of parents starts weeding “inappropriate” books out of the library. And being found with a banned book becomes a detention-worthy offense.
June is determined to keep reading, hiding a book in her bedroom or between the pages of a text book and taking advantage of a neighborhood Little Free Library. And over time, she finds a few fellow rebels at school who are eager to find new reading material. So June starts sharing her stash. The kids know they have to keep this secret, but school administrators are watching. They are determined to “protect” the students from books they think are dangerous.
Review
June is a great character. She has some excellent moments that made me want to cheer. Her parents and the school board, PTO and administration were infuriating. I was appalled by the idea of such an extreme censorship response, especially with so little input from any true educational experts. June’s parents’ “solution” for June’s personal library at home was ludicrous.
As a kid, my parents let me read anything I wanted. As a parent myself, I try to speak into what my teen reads. We talk about what we are reading and why one of us might not keep reading a particular book. We talk about listening to your conscience and the Holy Spirit when that voice tells you something isn’t a good thing to read. I want my child to be a thoughtful and critical reader. Those are skills in short supply these days, but they can’t be developed if I control his reading life.
This book has some things in common with Ban this Book which I reviewed earlier this year, although I think Ban this Book has more to offer readers than just the censorship story. Each one has its own “flavor” and stands on its own.
Lots of terrific books are cited in this one. Hand this to any reader who loves books about books or who enjoys a little rebellion in their protagonists.