Whatever. I Read What I Want!

In these freewheeling days of the Internet and high-definition television, a term such as banned books sounds downright antiquated. The phrase brings to mind scary World War II-era visions of black-and-white flames destroying a pyre of burning volumes. Scary stuff indeed — but in this crazy election cycle, it seems anything goes. Just recently, rumors that VP candidate Sarah Palin once attempted to have a laundry list of classic American literature banned from Alaskan libraries were somewhat suffused (however, according to both Time and the New York Times, Palin did attempt to wield political pressure on librarian Mary Ellen Baker in order to remove specific tomes from local shelves). Still, that’s enough to send chills down the spines of those who appreciates having the freedom to read whatever they want. Be it reading Toni Morrison’s Beloved or Heather Has Two Mommies, you can celebrate the cause and raise a glorious third digit to aspiring censors during Banned Books Week.

From September 27 through October 4, libraries and bookstores across the nation will feature illuminating displays and host special events to celebrate the books that The Man didn’t want you to read. Our brightest independent literary salvation, Books & Books, is all up in this mix with prominent displays at all three of its locations. But the flagship store in Coral Gables will host a special Fread 'Em event this Saturday. At 8 p.m., attendees can enjoy short readings by staff members and friends, including Nicole Swift, Victor Santiago, Susie Horgan, Michael Hettich, Mia Leonin, and Andrea Askowitz, followed by a screening of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Call 305-442-4408, or visit www.booksandbooks.com. For more info, visit www.bannedbooksweek.org.
Sept. 27-Oct. 4, 2008