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Every book Emily Drabinski recommended on podcasts

1 book · 1 episode across 1 podcast

Emily Drabinski appeared on The Ezra Klein Show in an episode titled America’s Top Librarian on the Rise of Book Bans, broadcast in September 2023, where she discussed the critical issues surrounding intellectual freedom, library access, and the rising tide of literature suppression across the United States. During the conversation, Drabinski offered specific literary recommendations that highlighted works frequently targeted by censorship efforts. Among her selections, she drew attention to Mike Curato's acclaimed graphic novel Flamer. Drabinski noted that the title prominently featured on the list of the top ten banned books compiled by the American Library Association. By highlighting Flamer, Drabinski underscored the importance of protecting young adult literature that explores themes of identity, coming of age, and personal acceptance, especially when such works face organized challenges in public libraries and educational institutions. Her appearance on the podcast positioned her as a vocal advocate for open access to diverse stories, using her platform to steer public attention toward the exact texts that cultural and political groups attempt to remove from circulation, thereby encouraging listeners to engage directly with challenged literature and support the authors who write them.