Selected Shorts: Banned Books with Judy Blume

Host: Symphony Space
Release Date: January 16, 2025

Introduction: The Persistence of Book Bans

Host: Meg Wolitzer

In the premiere episode of "Selected Shorts" titled "Banned Books with Judy Blume," host Meg Wolitzer delves into the enduring and escalating phenomenon of book banning in America. Wolitzer contextualizes the issue by tracing the history of censorship in the United States, highlighting notable instances such as the banning of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" for its abolitionist themes and "Ulysses" for perceived obscenity. She underscores the alarming increase in challenges against books in recent years, noting that in 2020 alone, 223 titles were contested, a number that surged to 4,240 by 2023.

“Believe it or not, the book ban is an intrinsic part of American Society.”
— Meg Wolitzer [00:08]

Wolitzer emphasizes the contemporary shift from grassroots community-driven bans to governmental interventions, raising concerns about legislators dictating literary access on a broader scale.

Judy Blume: A Champion Against Censorship

Speaker: Judy Blume

Invited to host a live segment, Judy Blume, one of the most frequently banned authors, shares her personal experiences and staunch opposition to book censorship. Blume recounts her battles against book bans since the 1970s, including allegations of her works promoting communism and arguments spearheaded by figures like Phyllis Schlafly in the 1980s.

“The banning isn't coming from an irate mother or a group that wants to decide not only what their kids can read, but what all kids can read.”
— Judy Blume [05:08]

Blume passionately describes her independent bookstore in Key West, which prominently features a display of currently banned or challenged books, symbolized by crime tape. This initiative serves as both a protest and an educational tool for patrons, many of whom are surprised by the number and types of books under threat.

Parody of Book Banning: A Satirical Take

Performer: Troy Iwata

The episode features a comedic parody that mocks the absurdity of certain book banning arguments. Performed by Troy Iwata, the piece humorously critiques literature that seeks to offend no one by avoiding controversial topics altogether.

“This book does not mention war, sex, drugs, politics, depression, alcohol, drugs, violence...”
— Troy Iwata as Shoemaker [06:35]

The parody satirizes overly sanitized literature, highlighting the irony in banning books to create a “safe” reading environment, thereby stifling meaningful discourse.

Roald Dahl’s “Lamb to the Slaughter”: Dark Humor and Censorship

Performer: Catherine O’Hara

Catherine O'Hara brings Roald Dahl's "Lamb to the Slaughter" to life, a story that, while not explicitly banned, embodies the subversive spirit that some authorities might find threatening. The tale follows Mary Maloney, who murders her husband with a leg of lamb and ingeniously covers her tracks by feeding the weapon to the investigating detectives.

“Then she stepped back a pace, waiting, and the funny thing was that he remained standing there for at least four or five seconds...”
— Catherine O’Hara as Mary Maloney [15:53]

O'Hara's performance underscores the story's dark humor and critiques the lengths to which societal norms and censorship can suppress individual agency and narrative complexity.

David Sedaris’ “Bruised”: Navigating Adolescent Confusion and Censorship

Performer: Malik Pancholi

The final narrative features David Sedaris' "Bruised," performed by Malik Pancholi. Sedaris explores themes of puberty, sexual identity, and the intricate struggles of adolescent self-acceptance. The protagonist grapples with inappropriate advances from a peer, reflecting broader societal issues regarding consent and the stigmatization of LGBTQ+ identities.

“It is overwhelming when you are a kid. Were I to embarrass Olivier, he could have said anything.”
— David Sedaris as Narrator [35:32]

Pancholi's rendition captures the nuanced discomfort and emotional turmoil of the story, highlighting why such narratives often become targets for censorship due to their provocative content.

Conclusion: The Fight for Literary Freedom

Host: Meg Wolitzer & Judy Blume

Wrapping up the episode, Meg Wolitzer reiterates the importance of allowing diverse voices and stories to flourish without fear of censorship. Judy Blume echoes this sentiment, advocating for the establishment of more independent bookstores as bulwarks against censorship efforts.

“Anyone who won't allow readers that freedom to read is living in fear.”
— Meg Wolitzer [59:00]

Blume extends gratitude to organizations combatting censorship, such as the National Coalition Against Censorship and PEN America, encouraging listeners to support these initiatives.

“Thank you again to the Brooklyn Book Festival. I'm Judy Blume. Good night and thank you.”
— Judy Blume [61:42]

The episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and access to literature, underscoring the ongoing struggle against book bans in contemporary society.

Key Takeaways

• Historical Context: Book banning has deep roots in American history, evolving from community-driven efforts to governmental actions.
• Personal Battles: Judy Blume's firsthand experiences underscore the personal toll and societal implications of censorship.
• Satire as Critique: Parodies like Troy Iwata's highlight the often illogical nature of censorship arguments.
• Complex Narratives: Stories like Roald Dahl's and David Sedaris' illustrate the delicate balance between provocative content and societal norms.
• Advocacy and Action: Building independent bookstores and supporting censorship-prevention organizations are essential steps in the fight for literary freedom.

Quote Highlights

• Meg Wolitzer on Intrinsic Book Bans: “Believe it or not, the book ban is an intrinsic part of American Society.”
  — Meg Wolitzer [00:08]

• Judy Blume on Government Censorship: “This is coming from government. Government in the United States of America.”
  — Judy Blume [05:08]

• Troy Iwata’s Parody on Safe Literature: “It does not mention homosexuality or anything that be construed as queer.”
  — Troy Iwata as Shoemaker [06:35]

• Catherine O’Hara’s Performance Reflection: “It really was rather a shock.”
  — Catherine O’Hara as Mary Maloney [32:18]

• Malik Pancholi on Adolescent Struggles: “It is overwhelming when you are a kid.”
  — David Sedaris as Narrator [35:32]

"Selected Shorts: Banned Books with Judy Blume" serves as a poignant exploration of the relentless challenge against literary freedom, celebrating the resilience of authors and the indispensable role of storytelling in society.