ABC Presents: Sensitivity Readers and Free Expression

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Wednesday, January 24, 2018 9:20 AM to 10:20 AM EST
Mississippi

Sensitivity readers review manuscripts for bias and potentially offensive words and situations, but do they create a chilling effect on the publication and sale of works with serious value? Recent book controversies have caused publishers of children’s books to cancel titles that have come under attack or that they fear will be attacked. One national review publication retracted a starred review under such pressure. In this session, free speech experts will join booksellers in discussing the free speech implications of the increasing sensitivity to diversity and authentic multicultural representation in the publication and sale of children’s books, including the use of a sensitivity reader on a bookstore staff.

Joan Trygg, Red Balloon Bookshop (Saint Paul, MN); Kenny Brechner, Devaney, Doak & Garrett Booksellers (Farmington, ME); Nadine Strossen, Professor of Law at New York Law School and Former President ACLU (New York, NY); Dhonielle Clayton, We Need Diverse Books (New York, NY); Moderated by Christopher Finan, Executive Director of National Coalition Against Censorship (New York, NY)

About ABA

American Booksellers Association is a national trade association that supports and advocates for the success of independent bookstores. We provide members with education, networking opportunities, advocacy, resources, and technology. In turn our members support local schools through book fairs, donations and author visits; promote literacy; provide inclusive community centers; connect readers and books; add character to neighborhoods; champion and center diverse and new voices; and contribute to the local economy. We feel honored to support them in their work.

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