Ann Patchett, Lauren Groff and Tony Birch — when writing and selling books becomes a political act

Big Ideas

In some parts of the United States, you're more likely to see a book banned in public libraries and schools, than efforts towards gun control. Advocacy organisation PEN America has documented more than 10,000 book bans since 2021. Momentum to censor books is growing, and also spreading to places like Australia. So what's it like to write and sell books in this climate?

This event was recorded at the Melbourne Writers Festival on the 12 May, 2024.

Speakers

Ann PatchettAuthor of Tom Lake, Bel Canto, Truth and Beauty, and many more; Owner, Parnassus Books, Nashville Tennessee

Lauren GroffAuthor The Vaster Wilds, Fates and Furies, Florida, and many more; Owner, The Lynx Books, Gainsville Florida

Tony BirchAuthor, Women and Children, Ghost River, Shadowboxing; Boisbouvier Chair in Australian Literature at Melbourne University

Christine Gordon (host)Programming and Engagement manager, Readings; Director, Victorian Women's Trust Board; Founding Director of the Stella Prize

Further information

The Book Show, ABC RN: Banned Books podcast