Hi everyone! Sorry I checked out for a bit, but summer hit hard, and I had some adjusting to do. The fourth of July was huge this year with my niece turning eighteen. Our fourth of July baby is going off to college. Oh, the changes keep coming.
I turned the fireworks into tigers this year: My nephew’s suggestion, and my most intricate cut. Here’s a quick edit: (warning: fireworks noises)
Today, I read an exciting email from humanities Washington (WA State), and instantly wanted to share it with everyone.
| Are you glad to have the freedom to read whatever you want? Tell us about it! Washington Reads Freely is a new project where people from across the state share stories celebrating their right to read anything. The stories will then be collected and made available online during Banned Books Week in late September. Stories can be shared anonymously. In 2023, the American Library Association reported that the number of titles targeted for censorship at public libraries increased a shocking 92% over the previous year. The goal of Washington Reads Freely is to positively affirm the right to read and highlight the importance of ensuring access to a diversity of ideas, stories, and perspectives. People of all ages can submit their thoughts. Write about any aspect of the freedom to read, or use one of our prompts. Those who share their email address will be entered to win prizes during Banned Books Week. We’re excited to hear from you! |
What a great invitation. I have too much I want to say. I started thinking about the adult books (A Clockwork Orange, Jaws, Leaves of Grass) I found in my Dad’s den, snooping where I wasn’t allowed as a child. I got in trouble when Mom caught me reading them, but that only made me look harder, and further. I have some writing and whittling to do. I hope you’ll join me.
Not in Washington State? Why not use this call to action as an example for your state, or community?
Experience Writing 