My Shadow is Purple author Scott Stuart on book bans extremism
In a world where diversity and representation are valued more than ever, stories that empower and embrace differences have become crucial. Scott Stuart, a father and author, has experienced both the triumphs and challenges of promoting inclusion through his children’s books. As we celebrate Banned Books Week, Stuart shared his journey with us at How […]
Judy Blume and other bestselling authors unite to fight book bans
A group of bestselling authors has joined forces to support PEN America’s campaign in Florida to counter book bans and restrictions on educational materials. This unprecedented collaboration, led by acclaimed author Michael Connelly, aims to safeguard the freedom to read and learn in public classrooms across the state, and it comes at a time when […]
Dutch ‘Amazon’ Bol.com ‘flooded with AI-generated books’
Bol.com, one of the Netherlands’ leading online marketplaces, is currently inundated with a vast array of books created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI), reveals recent research conducted by BNR. From comprehensive Bangkok travel guides to specialised sugar-free diet cookbooks, Bol.com’s digital shelves are teeming with AI-generated literary offerings. These titles, available in both […]
Watermarking in books: can AI bypass filters?
With the proliferation of AI-generated content, the need to distinguish genuine books from AI-created fabrications has never been more pressing. Recent strides in generative AI models have prompted researchers to explore innovative techniques for identifying AI-generated images and texts, with watermarking emerging as a promising approach. However, a groundbreaking study led by computer science professor […]
Book bans: Uncle Bobby’s Wedding sequel to be released by Sarah Brannen
Award-winning author and illustrator Sarah Brannen has been at the forefront of the LGBTQ+ book ban discussion due to her groundbreaking children’s book, “Uncle Bobby’s Wedding.” Originally published in 2008, this heartwarming picture book featuring a same-sex wedding has faced numerous challenges and bans across the United States. Amid the ongoing backlash against such books, […]
Rory Cellan-Jones calls Amazon AI-generated bio ‘utter tosh’
A growing number of authors are discovering that their hard-earned literary works are being replicated by artificial intelligence (AI) and sold on the world’s largest e-commerce platform, Amazon. Writer and journalist Rory Cellan-Jones recently had an unnerving experience when he stumbled upon a memoir on Amazon, a memoir he had co-authored, complete with a cover […]
Jane Austen Meta AI: celebrities used in social interactions
In a frankly bizarre yet groundbreaking move, Meta has recently unveiled a revolutionary addition to its family of apps and devices – a cast of 28 unique artificial intelligences that you can now message on Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. These AIs, each with their own distinct interests and personalities, are set to deepen the way […]
US lawmakers’ resolutions proposal against book bans welcomed
In a critical bid to safeguard free expression and academic freedom within US public schools, Senator Brian Schatz and Representative Jamie Raskin have introduced companion resolutions in Congress, addressing the concerning rise of book bans and educational censorship. PEN America, an organisation at the forefront of defending open expression, has thrown its weight behind these […]
Iowa book ban leads to disclaimers on Little Free Libraries
In a response to Iowa’s recent contentious legislation banning certain books from schools, several school districts in the state are taking proactive measures to protect themselves. Reports from the Des Moines Register have highlighted how West Des Moines and Urbandale schools in Iowa are now placing disclaimers on their Little Free Libraries located on school […]
Ghostwriters used in celebrity books: what’s the issue?
Debating celebrity ghostwriters: Should stars like Millie Bobby Brown use them? Explore the insights into this literary practice.