Conservative “parent rights” groups have successfully influenced a nationwide decrease in sales and opportunities for authors of children’s books they deem inappropriate, resulting in over 10,000 book bans in public schools during the 2023-24 school year. The banned books often feature LGBTQ+ themes and characters of color. Teachers and librarians are hesitant to include controversial books in fear of losing their jobs or facing criminal charges. Publishers report a significant decrease in sales of such books, impacting authors’ incomes. Specific banned picture books include “Sparkle Boy,” “Milo Imagines the World,” “Heather Has Two Mommies,” and “Separate Is Never Equal.” The banning of these books has led to a decrease in sales and a growing trend of censorship in schools, causing concern among authors and the publishing industry.
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Gang shooting near prison facility where Ghislaine Maxwell is being held
A shooting occurred early Saturday morning near Federal Prison Camp Bryan in Texas, where Ghislaine Maxwell is incarcerated, involving a shootout between rival gangs during a nearby block party. The Bureau of Prisons confirmed no injuries to staff or guards, and the incident is unrelated to Maxwell's presence; an investigation is ongoing. Want More Context? 🔎
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