PEN America: Nearly 12,000 school book bans in a year, a record high

In a startling report, PEN America disclosed that almost 12,000 book bans impacted public schools last year, marking a significant rise in censorship. The report underscores that books addressing race, sexuality, and gender identity face the highest scrutiny, with Stephen King's writings being the most frequently challenged. Noteworthy titles such as 'The Handmaid's Tale' and 'Speak' also appeared on the list.