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Welcome to Today in Books, our daily summary of significant literary news intertwining politics, culture, media, and more.
To Act Justly and to Love Mercy
The Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde gained widespread attention following her heartfelt appeal to President Trump to “have mercy” during her sermon at the National Prayer Service earlier this year. This impactful message resonated with many and was rooted in themes from her recently released book, How We Learn to Be Brave. This week, Penguin Young Readers announced plans to release two adaptations of Budde’s book for younger audiences. A young adult version, titled We Can Be Brave, adapted by author Bryan Bliss, is set to be published on October 25. Additionally, a picture book entitled I Can Learn to Be Brave is scheduled for release in the summer of 2026. These adaptations are anticipated to inspire a new generation of readers.
Publishers & Nonprofits Announce Fundraisers in Support of Freedom to Read
Penguin Random House and the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) are separately working to combat the rise of book bans and advocate for intellectual freedom. PRH recently launched its inaugural Banned on the Run 5k event, raising over $17,000 in just a single day. This initiative will culminate in a run/walk at their New York headquarters on April 9, including virtual participation options for those who cannot attend in person. Though this year’s event is exclusive to PRH and Sourcebooks employees, there are aspirations to widen participation in future editions. Concurrently, the NCAC plans to host a Stand Up for Free Speech Comedy Benefit on April 30 at Gotham Comedy Club in New York City. Both organizations are committed to ensuring that freedom of expression continues to thrive in literature.
Iowa’s Book Ban Bill is Blocked, Again
A federal judge has issued a temporary injunction against Senate File 496 in Iowa, a legislative measure aiming to enforce strict “age appropriateness” for public school materials, including the removal of what it deems inappropriate content related to sexual acts. Despite this legal victory, Kelly Jensen highlights the ongoing turmoil, emphasizing that this is the third ruling on the bill, which has left educational institutions in disarray and deprived numerous students of essential literary resources in classrooms and libraries throughout the state. The implications of such legislative actions continue to raise concerns about access to diverse literature for young readers.
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