Authors Join PEN America in Protest Over Banned Books in Rockingham VA Schools
“We are concerned not only about the recent ban, but also the limitations on public discourse,” said Kasey Meehan, Freedom to Read program director at PEN America. “It is… More
The 11 Most Banned Books of the 2022-2023 School Year
These were the 11 most banned books of the 2022-2023 school year, according to PEN America's Index of Banned Books. More
Wole Soyinka to Present Award to Henry Louis Gates Jr. at PEN America Gala
PEN America announced today that acclaimed Nigerian writer, poet, and playwright Wole Soyinka will fly in from Nigeria to offer remarks at the organization’s 2021 Literary Gala celebration in… More
2019 LitFest Gala: Levar Burton’s Tribute to Toni Morrison
In an intimate tribute to Toni Morrison at the 2019 LitFest Gala in Los Angeles, acclaimed actor and author LeVar Burton honored the late writer's legacy. More
PEN America to Honor “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” and “Unbelievable” at 11/1/19 Litfest Gala in Los Angeles
In what is expected to be an incredibly poignant moment during the ceremony, actor, author, and reading and education advocate LeVar Burton will deliver a tribute to the legendary… More
DARE: A Secret U.S. Government List Targeting Journalists and Activists Is under More Expansive Investigation
Department of Homeland Security investigates Customs and Border Protection's database of journalists, immigration advocates, and attorneys, many of whom... More
Daughters of Toni: A Remembrance
"Her books lined our living room shelves and appeared in multiple copies, as if my mother was trying to reassure herself that Morrison was here to stay." More
DARE: Florida Man Who Mailed Bombs to Democrats, Media Gets 20 Years in Prison
Cesar Sayoc, who mailed pipe bombs to media organizations and prominent Democrats, sentenced to 20 years in prison. Ruling on Knight First Amendment... More
Tribute to Toni Morrison (1931–2019)
PEN America—along with the wider literary community—mourns the death of Nobel laureate and long-time PEN America Member Toni Morrison. More
Freedom, Power, and Rage: A Reading List
How can we channel our freedom, power, and rage to create change in the world? The following PEN America book list is an excellent place to start. More
Support for the freedom to read with exclusive designs by Todd Parr, Mike Curato, Art Spiegelman, and more!
