It’s so weird to be tangentially part of a little controversy.

Recently first lady Melania Trump sent out packages of books to libraries around America and she picked, of all books to send, a bunch of Dr. Seuss books. As if all libraries don’t already carry them!

Well Liz Phipps Soeiro wrote a public post saying ‘Thanks but no thanks’ that ended up going viral. She quotes Dr. Seuss’s penchant for perpetuating racist stereotypes. In fact recently it was suggested that the ‘Cat’, in the The Cat in the Hat was black which gives the reading of the story a completely different flavor!!!

I think it took an incredible amount of courage on her part to speak truth to power.

Full disclosure, I actually know Liz. She’s booked me numerous times for skype visits for her school but that doesn’t take away from the fact that I agree with her decision anyway.

Ms. Soeiro created a list of ten books that Melania Trump would have done better to hand out.

These are books that promote cross cultural understanding and tolerance!

I was tickled to see my book King for a Day on the list.

Here is the Quill & Quire’s take on the controversy.

Canadian titles among diverse kids’ books librarian suggests to Melania Trump

I hope very much that the pressure that Liz Phipps Soeiro received taking her principled stance doesn’t discourage future librarians to call out the powers that be when they want to do politically expedient but rather empty gestures of patronage.

Personally, I’m proud to know her!