PEN America joins Reading Rhythms at the Brooklyn Book Festival for a Banned Book Reading Garden. Readers can stop by throughout the day to browse a library of banned books, lounge on Scandinavian furniture from Teak New York, and join creative activities including bookmark-making, a postcard-writing campaign supporting librarians facing book challenges, and photo opportunities with favorite titles. The garden offers space to read freely, reflect, and connect—celebrating stories too often challenged but never silenced. Thank you to Teak New York, and Penguin Random House for providing furniture and books!
And join us at Booth 516 to learn more about PEN America events and advocacy, and to check out artist Ellis Angel’s Banned Book Weavings!
About PEN America: PEN America tracks book bans and fights literary censorship in public schools and libraries across the country. Book bans overwhelming target books about race, LGBTQ+ identity, and other diverse stories. The freedom to read is a core tenant of free expression. Visit pen.org/action to learn how you can get involved.
About Reading Rhythms: Reading Rhythms is a series of welcoming reading parties designed to make it easy for people to gather and read socially. In a world that can often feel devoid of interest and meaningful connection, we bring readers together to reconnect with our love of learning, to experience the wonder of beautiful venues and curated music, and to gather amongst all of the people who want to be in that very same room.
About Teak NYC: Partnering with over 70 artisan brands across Nordic countries, Teak New York brings the essence of authentic Scandinavian design to your home. A women-owned business, visit their flagship showroom in Greenpoint and leave with something beautiful and inspiring.