Steve Martin, star of the hit show “Only Murders In The Building,” took to social media on Monday to express his pride in his 2000 novel, “Shopgirl,” being among the more than 300 books that were recently removed from Collier County Public School libraries in Florida. In a Facebook post that received over 38,000 likes, Martin wrote, “So proud to have my book Shopgirl banned in Collier County, Florida! Now people who want to read it will have to buy a copy!”
The removal of “Shopgirl” and other books was a result of a new Florida state law that makes it easier for individuals to challenge school library books that they believe depict or describe sexual conduct. This move has sparked controversy and drawn attention to the issue of censorship in education.
“Shopgirl,” which was later adapted into a film starring Claire Danes in 2005, is not the only notable work affected by this removal. Authors such as Stephen King, Toni Morrison, Ernest Hemingway, and Alice Walker have also had their books taken off the shelves in Collier County.
The decision to ban these books has raised concerns among supporters of free speech and the importance of exposing students to diverse literary works. Critics argue that it restricts students’ access to valuable and thought-provoking literature, limiting their exposure to different perspectives and ideas.
While the removal of these books may prevent students from accessing them through the school library, it is likely to lead to increased interest and sales. Steve Martin’s humorous response reflects this sentiment, with the hope that those who wish to read “Shopgirl” will now have to purchase their own copy.
The debate surrounding the banning of books in school libraries is far from over, as advocates for intellectual freedom continue to challenge these restrictive policies. In the meantime, authors like Steve Martin and others affected by the removal are using their platforms to shed light on the issue and spark discussions about the importance of literary freedom in education.
