**"Lawn Boy" by Jonathan Evison Now in Our Banned Book Library at Lake Creek Academy!**

We are excited to announce that *Lawn Boy* by Jonathan Evison has been added to our "Banned Book Library" at Lake Creek Academy. This novel follows the life of a young man named Mike Muñoz as he navigates the challenges of class, identity, and his place in the world. With its raw, honest portrayal of socio-economic struggles, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness, *Lawn Boy* opens up important conversations about privilege, race, and identity. It’s a book that may be controversial, but it’s exactly the type of story that encourages students to think critically about the world around them and their own role in it.

At Lake Creek Academy, we believe it’s vital for both students and parents to read *Lawn Boy* and engage in conversations about its themes. Books like this give us the opportunity to talk openly about uncomfortable truths, challenge our assumptions, and foster understanding. Many public schools are hesitant to address such difficult topics, but we’re committed to creating an environment where our students are encouraged to think deeply and engage with complex issues. Let’s read, discuss, and learn together, so that we can build a community where every voice and story is valued. 

Learn more about the book at https://g.co/kgs/m7C2Cf3

**"Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe Joins Our Banned Book Library at Lake Creek Academy!**

We’re excited to announce that *Gender Queer* by Maia Kobabe is now available in our "Banned Book Library" at Lake Creek Academy. This groundbreaking graphic memoir provides a deeply personal look into the author's journey of self-discovery as they navigate life as nonbinary and queer. In a world where conversations around gender and sexuality are often avoided or misunderstood, *Gender Queer* opens the door for honest, vulnerable, and important dialogue. It’s a book that challenges preconceived notions and helps foster understanding, compassion, and acceptance—values we believe are essential for young people today.

At Lake Creek Academy, we encourage both students and parents to engage with this book and use it as a springboard for meaningful conversations. These topics may make some feel uncomfortable, but it’s through these discussions that we grow and build a more inclusive, empathetic world. While some schools and institutions may shy away from talking about gender identity and sexuality, we’re committed to providing our students with the tools they need to navigate a complex world. Let’s start those conversations at home, where understanding begins. Together, we can create a more open and accepting future. 

Learn more about the book at https://g.co/kgs/dTUkKm1

**Introducing "Sold" by Patricia McCormick to Our Banned Book Library at Lake Creek Academy!**

We are proud to announce that *Sold* by Patricia McCormick is now part of our "Banned Book Library" at Lake Creek Academy. This powerful and heartbreaking novel sheds light on the brutal realities of human trafficking, following the story of a young girl named Lakshmi who is sold into this horrific world. While this is an incredibly difficult topic, it’s one that deserves our attention. Reading books like *Sold* allows us to confront uncomfortable truths, and by doing so, we raise awareness, build empathy, and empower ourselves to take action. At Lake Creek Academy, we believe that understanding tough topics like this is crucial for personal growth and the development of a compassionate society.

We strongly encourage parents to read *Sold* along with their children and use it as an opportunity for meaningful conversation. These discussions are vital in helping our students understand the world around them and the injustices that still exist. Our public schools may shy away from these tough subjects, but we are committed to ensuring our students are not shielded from the realities that many face. By reading and talking about books like *Sold*, we are fostering the courage to engage with challenging topics and creating a culture of awareness and kindness. Let’s make sure these essential conversations happen at home and in our community.

Learn more about the book at https://g.co/kgs/kmafZYJ

**Exciting News from Lake Creek Academy: "This Book is Gay" Joins Our Banned Book Library!**

We are thrilled to announce that our "Banned Book Library" at Lake Creek Academy will now include *This Book is Gay* by Juno Dawson. This thought-provoking and candid book tackles the complexities of sexual orientation, identity, and relationships in an honest and accessible way. It’s important to acknowledge that some of the books being banned or challenged in schools today cover uncomfortable topics, but that’s exactly why reading is so essential. These discussions open up opportunities for growth, understanding, and critical thinking. Whether we agree with every idea or not, it’s vital for students to explore diverse perspectives and learn to navigate topics that might be difficult or new to them.

At Lake Creek Academy, we encourage not only our students, but also their parents, to read these books. These conversations are too important to leave out of the classroom. Let’s break down the barriers to understanding and ensure that our kids are equipped with the knowledge to form their own opinions. It's our responsibility to foster open dialogue at home and challenge the boundaries that some public schools are trying to avoid. Reading is a gateway to empathy and understanding, and we believe it’s an essential tool in shaping well-rounded, informed individuals. Join us in creating a space where these conversations can happen—where knowledge is power, and every voice is heard!

Learn more about the book at https://g.co/kgs/ttsjJ1F

**Banned Book Blog: All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson** 

At Lake Creek Academy, we believe in the power of books to spark meaningful conversations, broaden perspectives, and foster growth—both for children and adults. That’s why we’re proud to celebrate *All Boys Aren’t Blue* by George M. Johnson, a beautifully written memoir-manifesto that explores identity, family, and self-discovery through the lens of the Black queer experience. 

Books like this often find themselves on banned lists, but they hold incredible value by encouraging readers to step into someone else’s shoes, challenge preconceived notions, and have honest, open conversations about complex topics. 

At Lake Creek Academy, we’re committed to providing access to books like *All Boys Aren’t Blue* so our students—and their parents—can explore and discuss these important stories together. Building understanding and empathy starts with listening to diverse voices, and we’re proud to provide a space where learning and connection thrive. 

Let’s celebrate the freedom to read and the growth that comes from it. Happy Banned Book Friday! 

Learn more about the book here: https://g.co/kgs/x8F2wy1

**Banned Book Blog: 1984 by George Orwell** 

Friends of Lake Creek Academy, let's talk about a powerful and often controversial book: George Orwell's *1984*. In a world grappling with complex issues, the themes explored in this novel – government surveillance, manipulation of truth, and the suppression of individual thought – feel more relevant than ever.

It might surprise you to learn that *1984* has been banned or challenged in various places throughout history. Often, these bans stem from concerns about its political and social critiques, its portrayal of totalitarianism, and its potential to challenge authority.

But isn't that precisely why we *need* to read it?

Banning a book like *1984* doesn't erase the ideas it presents; instead, it can shield us from crucial discussions about power, freedom, and the importance of critical thinking. By engaging with challenging texts, even those that make us uncomfortable, we equip ourselves to recognize and resist potential threats to a free and open society.

At Lake Creek Academy, we believe in fostering intellectual curiosity and encouraging our students to grapple with important ideas. Books like *1984* serve as vital warnings, prompting us to stay vigilant and actively participate in shaping a future where truth and individual thought are valued, not suppressed.

Learn more about this book: https://g.co/kgs/wkAX8yB 

**Banned Book Friday: *The Handmaid’s Tale* by Margaret Atwood** 

This week, we’re highlighting *The Handmaid’s Tale* by Margaret Atwood—a powerful, thought-provoking novel that has found itself on banned lists across the country. This dystopian story delves into themes of power, control, gender, and the loss of individual rights, offering readers a chilling yet meaningful lens through which to examine the world around us. 

Why is it being banned? Many challenge the book for its depictions of violence, adult themes, and its critique of societal and political systems. But these same reasons are what make it so impactful—*The Handmaid’s Tale* asks tough questions and pushes readers to think critically about issues like freedom, equality, and the consequences of complacency. 

At Lake Creek Academy, we believe books like this are essential for fostering critical thinking and meaningful discussions. By reading and discussing stories like *The Handmaid’s Tale*, students can engage with complex ideas, develop empathy, and build an understanding of how history, literature, and current events intersect. 

We’re proud to provide access to books that challenge, inspire, and teach. Let’s celebrate the freedom to read and the lessons we learn from stories that push boundaries. 

Learn more about this book: https://g.co/kgs/5gMcQCV