My book was BANNED

My Picture Book Got Banned!
Paul is here to set the record straight and give you all the behind-the-scenes details that led to his children’s picture book, “The Secret Ingredient”, getting banned!
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[@CynthiaCurtis-s8b]

As someone who practiced law for 30+ years and worked for 2 of the Big 5 publishers I just wanted to say THANK YOU for shining light on this topic, Paul. You are correct that this type of book banning in under reported, simply because (as you said) it is easily done without checks or balances (ie no “challenge” is required). Even so, it’s important to share these stories and to support the bookshops that carry inclusive books - ESPECIALLY children’s books! Bravo, Paul (and Matthew and Mr Maple) 👏👏👏 We are behind you 100%

[@MatthewandPaulOfficial]

Wow!! Thank you so much, this really means a lot ❤

[@CynthiaCurtis-s8b]

@@MatthewandPaulOfficialyou are MOST welcome ❤

[@Alltagundso]

"book banning" They call it the land of the free. 😢

[@mary-mz6ms]

@@MatthewandPaulOfficial hi

[@bcaye]

​@@Alltagundso, it was a particular store, nothing to do with civil rights...they have the right not to sell books they don't agree with and that is freedom all around. Paul can write whatever books he wants and they are free not to sell them, see how that works? As soon as fans heard about it, all the rejected books sold at record speed anyway.

[@claudiakarl7888]

My country, Germany, once banned books, even burned them. Believe me: this is never a good idea. It’s a first step…

[@wfcoaker1398]

I've been watching WWII videos lately. It's alarming to see the similarities between the US and Weimar Germany. Not exactly alike by a long shot, but there's similarities.

[@reidpinchback8850]

​​@@wfcoaker1398and the number of points of similarity keep increasing

[@omegadadragon]

This comment is reminding me of Fahrenheit 451 for some reason. Probably because this specifically was one of the things that the book is against.

[@Pineaple_]

I pretty sure at one point in China they burned all the books too

[@claudiakarl7888]

@@Pineaple_ They did during the Mao era

[@seagoingcook]

As someone who has sailed on many a research ship, its common for penguins to have same sex relationships. So you're not only teaching acceptance, you're teaching science!!

[@ronyboylive6934]

I like this

[@SBPepperminion]

Was that a coincidence, or was that one incentive into his use of penguins?

[@passiveaggresivesquirrel2052]

@@SBPepperminion why does it matter?

[@SBPepperminion]

I just want to know why he decided to use penguins in the story. A brief explanation into why.

[@seagoingcook]

@@SBPepperminion they're animals everybody likes

[@annataymond9529]

Very important though- Not buying the book, is NOT the same as buying, organizing, canceling, and demanding refunds despite there being no wrong doing on the side of the seller. They’re entitled to carry the books they want to carry, they’re not entitled to refunds for items that arrived EXACTLY as described. Not supporting is fine, active disrespect and entitlement is not.

[@tanepukenga1421]

Well said. There's a massive difference between not interacting and interacting in bad faith.

[@rppdfire]

sounds like a rouge employee was making deals against the owners wishes.

[@tiffanyroberson9773]

@@rppdfirenot necessarily. The employee could’ve been a manager who was completely allowed to make orders, and the owners could’ve been quietly bigoted. If that was the case, the employee could’ve ordered the books thinking everything would be fine until they weren’t.

[@rachelicey604]

@@tiffanyroberson9773 Regardless of what they wanted, they cannot just refuse the order/demand a refund. It was a mistake on their end and not his. Whether the employee was fired or not, they already ordered them and scheduled his time. They might be able to bill the former employee if they really wanted to. Imo, the refusal to pay is the biggest problem here. That bookstore should be grateful that he didn’t try to name and shame. It would have been deserved, because they basically scammed him. I mean, an argument can be made that they have a right to choose what books go up on the shelf. There is an obvious moral issue with the discrimination, but it is (unfortunately) legal. To demand a refund for an order when it isn’t the seller’s fault is illegal. Printing those books is expensive and shipping them isn’t cheap either. The seller should have paid for the books.

[@rachelicey604]

So. Basically: Even if the employee ordered them when they weren’t supposed to, the company still should have paid for them. If they wanted the money back, they should have billed the person responsible. Not the seller.

[@adeleshaak4107]

Thinking about the woman who tried to set up the event and suddenly no longer worked there. Sounds like she either got fired or quit over the situation, and I hope her rebound is high and glorious - she deserves the best, and so do you. The books are wonderful.

[@Amarianee]

Let's be real, with the language that other employee (likely owner or manager) used, that poor woman got fired. I just hope she's doing well with a better job and kind management that aligns with her kindness and acceptance.

[@jolienvsndijk]

Seriously I hope she is doing well. I understand the decision to not name the store is a good one, but it's a shame that we can't help this woman because of it 😢

[@HorseLady1109]

@@adeleshaak4107 I got the impression she was fired as well. I also hope she “landed on her feet” and is doing well.

[@originalkingdomhearts]

I hope that woman can get justice and that store has to pay her for wrongful termination

[@Sharon-hd8fg]

📚

[@calypsomcknight5445]

My sister is a librarian at an elementary school in Vancouver, and I told her this story so she's going to order both for her library! 📚📚📚

[@shamancarmichael5305]

As a children's librarian I have been battling banned books my entire career. During the Potter phenomenon we had protesters out front every time we had one of our magical programs. It never stopped us, and they never will! Kindness and truth prevails, so keep doing what you are doing, it's working!! 📚 🤗❤🤗❤ 📚

[@GeekGamer666]

Honestly, as one of the people who was the target age during Potter madness it blows the mind to think that people were so upset about something so trivial in the larger picture of things. Good on you for helping keep freedom of thought alive.

[@NaeniaNightingale]

Helping a open transphobe is not what I call a nice thing to do. You are just a hypocrite

[@jennifergreen6510]

​@@NaeniaNightingaleJK Rowling isn't a transphobe.

[@Lexiz2902]

@@jennifergreen6510she’s… pretty outspoken about being a transphobe lol

[@gamingmango7017]

@@jennifergreen6510yes… she is

[@bighatstephens]

I sent my set to the Methodist Church in Merced, CA. They are a reconciling congregation and were absolutely thrilled to receive the books.

[@MatthewandPaulOfficial]

Wow!! Thank you!😊❤

[@KeoTheUndamaged]

To anyone who said they wanted to burn the bookstore. Shame on you. When the bigots are being bigots, we have to prove we are better than them and show them that love and acceptance conquers all

[@Enderception]

"The paradox of tolerance states that if a society's practice of tolerance is inclusive of the intolerant, intolerance will ultimately dominate, eliminating the tolerant and the practice of tolerance with them."

[@stargirl91291]

@@Enderceptionwhere is that quote from?

[@KeoTheUndamaged]

@@Enderception ok. Violence still isn't the answer because an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind

[@AstoundingAmelia]

​@@stargirl91291is a quote from Karl Popper from the 1940s and it's often blown out of proportion. Many people think that being intolerant of intolerance immediately means resorting to violence, but that’s not true in the traditional sense. It’s about actively opposing intolerance without giving it a platform. For example, you can remove intolerant comments from online forums, refuse to engage with or support intolerant individuals, and speak out against intolerance whenever you encounter it. The goal is to prevent intolerance from dominating and silencing tolerance, not to resort to acts of violence like burning things down.

[@UhOhJacquinette]

Although I understand the sentiment…. Revolution does not come peacefully

[@heidiburri1260]

I did a display at my middle school library about banned books. My students were upset, thinking I would trash the books. It was a very successful opportunity to teach on prejudices and acceptance. Keep the love growing.

[@cassandrahepp6445]

That's actually a wonderful idea.

[@HorseLady1109]

@@heidiburri1260 Wonderful! Good for you!

[@mariontheantiquarian7849]

I did that at the high school library (before I retired) huge display, incorporating the entire front entrance, photos of children’s books that had been banned or challenged over the years… not only did the circulation numbers increase, it opened up some incredible discussions about why, how etc…

[@mariontheantiquarian7849]

@@antbee5265they aren’t necessarily banned forever. The American Library Association has a list (many list tbh) of the 100 most challenged books. It can be sorted by year also. They may be challenged & pulled one year & added back another… you would be surprised at some of the titles on the list.

[@clayton8508]

We have book stores setting up banned book areas

[@Inconsistent-Dogwash]

These types of book bans sound very spiteful and childish. The weird thing about books is you don’t have to read a book if you don’t want to but don’t have a paddy if someone else does.

[@neptunesgalaxy5123]

I love my school librarian because every month she puts a banned books shelf where she puts up books that have been put on banned book lists, and it’s crazy to see how many are only banned to exclude certain people

[@anndownsouth5070]

You guys got married on what would have been my and my husband's 35th anniversary. I lost him in 2013. Congratulations and may you guys be happy forever. ❤🐧❤🐧❤🐕❤

[@aikhii]

I’m sorry, I wish you the best 💕

[@anndownsouth5070]

@aikhii Thank you. I'm doing good. I just love to hear about other couples that chose the same date we did. 💖

[@aikhii]

@@anndownsouth5070 That’s really cute :)!

[@GalaxyKitKats]

I'm sorry for you loss, hope you have the happiest life you can! 💗💗💗💗

[@ItsKadelyn]

​@@anndownsouth5070❤️🫂🫶

[@nicoles1257]

I'm glad you named two of the supportive book sellers. Now we know where to spend our $$. 📚📚📚

[@helen2475]

You have my ultimate respect for not naming the bookstore (and also the restaurant from before). It’s not easy to let anger take over, but instead you let kindness guide you! 📚

[@Art_and_Ice]

In my school, some mom complained to the school because a book their kid had from the library had a boy with a skirt in it so the school shut down both libraries for half the year to look through all the books to make sure there’s no lgbtq+ :[

[@jenniferz.1254]

Man, I hope the lady who tried to organize the event is doing alright. I bet it was a shock to her as well. I hope you are able to reach out to her to see how she’s doing 😢

[@kirbthebean]

I grew up having two moms, and I would have loved to see a children’s book that represented different types of families! Now kids can, and I think that’s a beautiful thing. Your books are wonderful, and I hope they can get into the hands of everyone one day 📚

[@GeekGamer666]

You should get one now. I see no reason why people think children's books aren't also adult books. The only reason for them to be called children's books is that they're appropriate for children (ie don't contain content that's too mature for their developing brains).

[@kirbthebean]

@@GeekGamer666I most likely will, I just need to wait for a time where I’m not occupied by other expenses :) Since the only novels I have are either Shakespeare or about history, these books my lighten my shelves up!

[@vhuboe]

I find it difficult to fathom that the kind of person who would open a book store would ban any books at all. It's mind boggling

[@annataymond9529]

I just realized how sad it is that my first thought was “that’s not really surprising”

[@MoDa87]

This book store is so lucky you are not naming them. You could have ended them, the same as the restaurant that refused you entry with Mr Maple. It just shows how good of a person you are.

[@SecretSquirrelFun]

John Green often talks about having his books banned. 📚 A video collaboration talking about this underreported topic would be very cool, educational but also very cool. I mean come on, it’s John Green. 📚

[@lrfcowper]

I would love that! 📚

[@FreaJones-ez1em]

OMG WE NEED THIS!!!! 🫶✨📚

[@tanepukenga1421]

It would be a very long while coming. John's taking a mental health break from media. It's a good idea though, maybe someone like Daniel Greene or Merphy Napier.

[@Respectable_Username]

@@tanepukenga1421The break was only until next month IIRC, at least as far as VlogBrothers goes. I can very much see this being a conversation John would love to help out with!

[@-Suie-]

As a straight woman i love your books, just because the message is LOVE 🥰 not *pushing* an agenda, and children today knows families look different

[@happyhippoeaters4261]

Despite common beliefs, much like Plastic Man from DC, Penguins do not actually wear clothes (normally)

[@meesisatonmai]

I love how kind and considerate you were about not naming the employee/bookstore, even amid the shock of hearing the bad news. That takes very good discernment, foresight, and self-control, and I applaud your & Matthew’s moral character for working to prevent harm against those who had hurt you ❤️ 📚

[@ravennerd3027]

If you decide to continue with more Pengrooms books, then i think ot would be a cute idea to do a kind of prequel of them, with how they met and how they might have started delivering cakes together 📚

[@kathydittmer9659]

I love how you don’t want the people who kicked you to the curb to be harassed. Thank you for choosing peace!

[@agustinapelucci3183]

📚 thank you for share this! I 100% understand your decition of not sharin the bookstore name, and I am so glad and happy that you sold out your books!! You absolutely deserve it. It is too easy to see how much love you put into the books. Thank you for share the pengrooms history with us❤️

[@dj33036]

I think every book store should be required to publicly acknowledge if they are practicing any book bans. and what those books are. I should be made aware of exactly who I'm giving my money to.

[@WolfHeathen]

Book stores are private. They can ban whatever they want for whatever reason they want without having to justify it to anyone. Hell, they could ban you from entering because they didn't like the shirt you're wearing.

[@benjaminfranklin8412]

Every book store has limited space. They can't have every book.

[@Roanmonster]

@@benjaminfranklin8412 I thought about this as well. Realistically, you can't expect them to stock every book that is popular/ requested. They might also choose not to include children's 'horror' type books because they know their audience is not buying those, just to name something. Doesn't mean those books are banned.

[@nousernamesarevalid]

That would be hard to do. Let’s say the bookstore is for children’s books. They would probably ban books that are textbooks, adult content, etc. There would not be a specific list per se, but they would only carry books for their chosen age range.

[@nothingtoit142]

I guess we could always do a test to search if we can find an accepting book or ask for accepting books. If they don't carry any, we could ask why and decide whether or not to shop there.

[@xhante_]

I used to work at Borders books and music. One of my favorite things about working there is that we, as employees could choose to stock books and music that we personally liked. I’m so sad that Borders is no more. I know for a fact that we’d have stocked your book, shared it, and loved it. Thank you for sharing this story with us. Much love to you and Matthew! 📚💕

[@Respectable_Username]

I used to love Borders! There was a big one in the shopping centre my mum usually went to as a kid, and it was always a treat to get to go there at the end of an otherwise boring (for kiddo me) day's shopping. There's really only one big chain bookseller left here in Australia, which is such a shame as these big book stores could afford to stock so much bigger ranges in much bigger spaces than the indies ever could! IIRC, there was even a café in that particular Borders, so Mum could get a coffee while I went exploring the books. Good memories! Thanks for triggering that nostalgia ❤

[@xhante_]

@@Respectable_Username I miss Borders so much! We had a cafe in both locations I worked at and it was a joy to come in to work in the morning and get the coffee going. I still love the smell of freshly brewed coffee and books in the morning. I’ve been lucky to have some great jobs in my life but Borders might just have been my absolute favorite. I’m glad I could unlock a great memory for you and share something I know we both loved. 🩷📚 The only large book chain that I know of now is Barnes and Noble. Is that the one you’re talking about? I also remember Chapters books, but I don’t know if they’re still around.

[@Eclipsed_Dream]

I am so happy you have found better stores to carry your books. You've given me a lot of inspiration because I want to be an artist. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful heart Paul.

[@lindafolston8631]

📚 Thank you for pulling this whole story together and sharing your support of non-violence, and addressing “cancel culture”. Love your positivity and joy. Congratulations and the success of your book. 😊

[@MatsuyoRific]

It really is a shame people got so violent about this. I understand their feelings, I really do, but you don't end hate with more hate. You end it with love

[@LydJaGillers]

some people love Matthew and Paul a little too passionately and sometimes those passions get chaotic. I totally agree with their philosophy as well for not naming names.

[@Enderception]

"The paradox of tolerance states that if a society's practice of tolerance is inclusive of the intolerant, intolerance will ultimately dominate, eliminating the tolerant and the practice of tolerance with them."

[@adelebarnes1315]

Paul, Thanks for your great attitude about the booksellers' selectivity/ banning. Keep positive and keep writing about loving families. 📚🔆

[@Ka1denBreak]

This is why confidentiality is SO important, because people can go to such extremes. Lovely to see how things went well and how successful things are turning out to be. Keep up the good work and good luck! ❤

[@RobHaren]

📚All our Love to you both! We just celebrated our 26th anniversary. Rob and David. We are strong supporters of the LGBTQ+ community and your fight for your fine work is our fight too!

[@Vermilion_Erebus]

Next book idea: Baby penguin learns how to tackle adversity with help from their dads ❤ I honestly have SO much respect for you taking the high road absolutely the right call - you’re totally right we will get there eventually I always say we are moving forward even if it’s by baby steps we are walking in the right direction ❤️ Best plan of action is to ensure the bookstores you shop at are inclusive and just walk away if they aren’t

[@Amarianee]

Omg, this is such a great idea!! So many possibilities beyond just LGBTQ adversity, especially with all the different characters he's now created, and for it to be done in a simple child appropriate manner - it could honestly be world changing. Get on it Paul! Book 3, overcoming adversity by coming together in a kind productive way!

[@hannahk1306]

Maybe some books about their child's first day of school and all the different people there or one about their friends' families: "Millie lives with her Grandma and they eat bamboo for dinner.", "Sam lives with their Daddy and Papa and they eat fruit for dinner.", etc.

[@TheJohn1567]

I bought both books for last Christmas and have enjoyed them so much. I taught for 45 years and the younger children never showed prejudice. I had a very large library of Caldecot winning Authors and many other prize winning Authors.When I retired I gave all my books away to my current students and they all had favorite books and they took them Home. The only Thing I looked for in these stories is they had to contain a message of goodness. I sure believe that the Pengrooms would have been in my library If I hadn't retired 7 years before you wrote them. Keep writing Paul you have a real gift!

[@anahidkassabian4471]

You handled everything so graciously; massive applause on every count. Congratulations on being a role model of the first order! 🌟❤🌞

[@anantea]

I have a deep a respect for you to try to prevent bad things happen while sharing your stories. I love that you are so caring. I wish the world would be different and you wouldn't have to worry about vicious reactions, but it is what it is and I appreciate your effort to not instigate random attacks.

[@FrejaBlight]

Wtf!!! Of all books to ban?! Why? Because it shows real love and acceptance?!

[@mountwalker2785]

Yes, they have no problem showing heterosexual relations to children but they get aggressive as soon there is a same-sex couple.

[@sarahdore7884]

Yes, those cute little penguins are terrifying somehow I guess. Crazy

[@timefoolery]

It’s a Christian bookstore. They don’t tend to sell general interest books, so it’s not a banning. It was a mistake made by an employee who apparently didn’t understand that the shop only sold books about Christianity. You wouldn’t find the books in a Muslim bookstore, or a bookstore focused solely on particular subjects like travel, either, so it’s not as mean as it appears on the surface. It’s just bad luck that their employee took it upon herself to make the orders and poor Paul got insulted by the exchange.

[@timefoolery]

@@mountwalker2785it’s a Christian bookstore. I somehow doubt they sell that, either.

[@youngspaghettii]

​@@timefoolerythat makes absolutely no sense lol. So they weren't working there long enough to know they "only sold Christian books" but had access to accounts that allowed then to order books and bill the shop ? Lol. I think you're also taking the term "Christian book store" way too literally, if that part is even true they meant it is Christian owned lol. Not that they only sell Christian books. There is no bookstore like that lmfao

[@HackiePuffs]

The people who banned your book are honestly missing out. The little world you and Matthew have created with these 2 little penguins is so adorable and sweet!! As I discovered who you guys are after first hearing about this book ban it’s amazing what you 2 can do together and have done with this little book series!! Keep pushing forward creating and aspiring Paul and Matthew!! 💙🏳️‍🌈🐧🌈💞

[@pulgimole5]

Love how you handle the situation with grace and maturity. Congratulations on the sales and new events coming up! Love will always bring more love to you. 📚

[@tofumofuu]

I remember when I first saw the short you posted about your book being banned and I just felt extremely heartbroken so seeing about the success of your books and the love and support you got from everyone made me tear up. You absolutely deserve this big break and I can't wait to own more books from you! I am also one of those people who listens to your book reading at night before bed because it's very soothing and relaxing. Thank you for sharing your work to us and for not letting this unpleasant experience stop you ❤📚

[@amirasindi2429]

So fed up with the hateful few dictating life for the rest of us. So happy the books are such a success. Much love to the Pengrooms!📚

[@TimboCanada]

Yeah, it's ironic that they're usually people who claim to follow the teaching of someone who loved all, especially the outcasts of society, and meanwhile, they'd like to remove the outcasts from society. Talk about not understanding the message being put out there... :(

[@sicidamara7061]

@@TimboCanada Not all of them are like that. Not even most of them. Let's not do exactly what we accuse them of and lump all of them in to one group

[@WolfHeathen]

@@TimboCanada Have you completely forgotten about the part in the bible where God hates homosexuality? I'm not religious and even I know that.

[@lys2303]

@@WolfHeathen Depends what translation of the Bible you read. The word ‘homosexual’ first appeared in a translation of the Bible in 1946.

[@WolfHeathen]

​@@lys2303 That's a technicality since the term "homosexual" wasn't coined until the 1860's. The bible mentions the act of same sex relations in other terms, with probably the most obvious being Leviticus 18:22; "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination."

[@lotsamoxie]

Paul, I love this video in so many ways. Thank you for speaking so eloquently and for caring so much about others, even those who have different views. I love your books; and, even more, I love the light and heart you & Matthew share with the world.✨💖✨

[@tylerhinman2815]

Paul, I am so happy that these obstacles that you are going through whether it be with your Sight or your books are working out, and you are always taking the high road, kill them with kindness. I hope you, matthew and Mr Maple do another book signing/reading I would love to go and meet the three of you, you guys truly are an inspiration for so many people and you are very loved by so many. Keep up the good work❤️

[@Itsgonnabeok1325]

How incredibly gracious are you! You could’ve literally ruined someone’s life, and instead, you’re being so wonderful. You are a good human. ❤

[@carolhorner7202]

I can't wait to get the 'Ultimate Book Set' I have ordered! It is to be a gift to my daughter. During the regular school year she teaches First grade (public school), and this summer she is teaching Kindergarteners and 1st Graders at the American School for the Deaf in Connecticut. These are not only great stories, read so expertly by Paul, but they will be easily translated to American Sign Language for our little ones who are without benefit of the spoken word. Vibrant colors abound, and the inclusion of the 2 little Pengrooms in the Set will be a wonderful (and cuddly) accompaniment. Thank you Paul and Matthew for all you do for our world! 📚🤟

[@lauriemapplebeck1286]

Congratulations Paul. I love you three! I am a Christian who prays a lot and does not thumb a Bible. I had cataracts removed and really understand a little about not being able to see. My eyes are done now and I will never take them for granted! God Bless Paul, Matthew and our Mr. Maple. Ps my last name is Mapplebeck♥️🙏🏼🇨🇦🇺🇸⭐️🎚️❤️

[@yuffie25]

📚 It is so wonderful that you have such a supportive fanbase. Your illustrations are so lovely, and I really hope to one day have a copy of each of your books. I am so happy you get to follow your dream, and I love seeing the videos you and Matthew make. Wishing you guys all the best,

[@caprushotze7590]

📚 I ordered your books a while back and had them sent to my sisters house in Seattle because I live in Germany. We were there 3 weeks ago. We are back in Germany now and today I finally had time to really look at them and my daughter noticed that you had upgraded me to the signed books. That is so kind of you 🎉 Thank You ❤ I can't wait for your new book with the plushy "Mr. Maple" to arrive. 😊

[@sherylgorla9355]

Paul, I thank you for handling this with such dignity and grace. Just goes to show what a loving and caring person you truly are! We need more people like you in this world.

[@nicichronicles]

I'm so sorry this happened to you. It's crazy that a staff member lost their job because one person has a cold heart. Your story and books are beautiful, and I love the graceful way you're handling this situation (you're VERY classy for not naming the bookstore). Best of luck to you and I'm glad you're not letting one person/organisation get you down. 🥰

[@originalkingdomhearts]

You truly are a kind respectful person and we need more people like you. People are so quick to spread hate, and hurt and destroy. People who watch and read this please take this as a lesson to not fight hate with hate, fight with love and understanding. If they wish to be hateful, then leave them to be hateful and spread love instead to make up for that hate.

[@katiobrien7854]

Does everyone that supports Paul's books realize that if the November presidential election goes red, all of Paul's books as well as so so many other authors' incredible books will be not only banned but reviled. This is just making me so anxious. I read Fahrenheit 451 when I was young and it left an indelible mark on me. That temperature is the temperature at which books burn. And burn they did in this book.

[@andreabartels3176]

German poet Heinrich Heine once said that first they burn books, than they burn people. Everyone who knows german history realizes how prophetic his words were. Since Heine's poems were so extremely well known and integrated in German culture, the nazi's couldn't simply ban them. Books still contained the poems, but with "Author unknown". Because for these bigots an author with jewish ancestry was not worth to be published.

[@remusgrrrl]

Don't be freaking absurd. None of that will happen FFS. You people are so unhinged conspiracy theorists.

[@remusgrrrl]

​@@andreabartels3176Only recent book burning I've seen is people burning the Bible.

[@myrinphoto]

"You have to take life's blows and turn them into something that works for you." Very wise words. Paul, you're a very strong man. Wishing you a growth of your fan community, your confidence, your love and (let me be a little bit hopeful) your eyes' health ❤❤❤

[@twilightwillowglade7214]

This just shows that when those we love and care for are hurting, we will rally together in support and love. We love you both, you're both amazing! You're both so sweet and loving and pure. Relationship goals!

[@SarahRichardsGraba]

📚📚📚 love your storytimes. As an avid reader, a literature and writing teacher, a writer, and a parent, this is a topic that hits close to home

[@karenj2464]

📚 Another example of love stomping on ignorance. I'm so happy everything turned out so positively in the end.

[@diamondstud322]

You’re so well-spoken, Paul. I’m so happy the books are doing so well. I agree with your decision not to name the bookstore. I understand that people get upset by things like this, but it is the bookstore owner’s right to offer (or not offer) whatever books they choose, and hate and violence don’t help. I really admire your attitude, and it’s so satisfying that the outcome of these negative situations you’ve experienced has been so positive. I’d like to believe that the energy we put out in the world comes back to use tenfold, and it seems like you’re getting your rewards.

[@lisaadams4505]

You are so sweet and I’m glad it has worked out for you. Even better that you have been able to bring by more awareness to this situation. I just bought the Pengrooms book and am eagerly awaiting it. Can’t wait to read it to my son :) Keep writing and sharing your beautiful personality 📚📚

[@Frogfan14]

Idk why some ppl think that loveing who ever you want is bad Personaly I belive everyone can love who they want to love

[@lilymulligan8180]

Honestly - congratulations, getting banned is an achievement. It means you've made an impact, and you're in good company with many other great authors! Keep doing what you're doing! 📚

[@MaxRide1]

I've heard this saying a few times and I feel like here it hits the nail on the head: the opposite of love isn't hate. The opposite of love is indifference. By NOT naming and shaming, by being indifferent to the bookstore that chose to do this to you and your books you've basically given them a big, fat, nothing for their response. They didn't get bad advertising (which some see as good advertising), their bookstore didn't get a huge influx of engagement online and in person. They got absolutely NOTHING from you, from your fan base, from your new fans. That is the best outcome that could have happened (maybe 2nd best if the best would be them getting over themselves and stocking the books..) Congratulations on the worldwide uptake of the books, congratulations for turning this negative upside down! It's wonderful news! 📚

[@kaiyakershaw1028]

Thanks for your comment. I hadn’t thought of it this way, but the way Paul handled this not only avoided harm, but it also didn’t allow them any potential publicity, be it an apology attempt (often meaningless) or making their business a “martyr” for the really angry, anti-diversity and inclusion groups who might have tried to rally to the store’s defense. Paul and Matthew are an amazing example of character, compassion, and integrity that our world desperately needs!! ❤ 📚

[@veronicaveeroni]

By being indifferent it allows this bigotry to fester and go unchecked

[@MyStarseedColoring]

@@veronicaveeroni Naming, shaming and attacking them doesn't make them stop. It just 'proves them right' in that the other side is a hateful mob that is dangerous. They want that, because then they can say you threw the first rock. It's much better to ignore them and spread the love, gain more followers and show the good side. That's how you get rid of bigotry. Those who are like that won't change anyways, they aren't worth your time.

[@HorseLady1109]

@@MaxRide1 Well said!

[@kristagriffith4277]

Thank you, Paul, for your joy and amazing projection of hope. I needed that today. I want to live in the future you envision. I try to hold on to that hope everyday, but some days are harder than others. I needed to see someone else have that hope for me today. Thank you so much. I am feeling that spark of hope again.

[@PlanetZhooZhoo]

I'm so glad there was a silver lining for you, your initial response was heartbreaking to see. ❤📚

[@ESkye91]

I will never understand why anyone would want to suppress love, the primary subject of your books. The world would be a so much healthier place for everyone if we embraced love. May you continue to enjoy great success. Love will no doubt win in this scenario. With any luck, those that shortsightedly chose to ban your books might learn a valuable lesson.

[@Wildecat10]

I normally stick to music, music reactions, food and polymer clay. But I’m so happy that KZbin tempted me with your videos. Your positivity always brightens my day. 📚🌈📚🌈📚🌈

[@saraocampo9066]

I have been so pleased watching this video seeing your happy face and listening everything you are telling us which is not more than happy happy news. Congratulations you deserve. It makes me so happy and so hopeful I have four grandsons. They are teens now and I have been so worried about the future because all this hate and violent situation that we are leaving here in the states listening about how unbelievable amount of people supporting you give me a lot of hope for their future, we are more the people who love and accept and respect each other than what we think. All my love for you two.

[@rayannemarlow3341]

Thank you for the education, this was something I didn't know. I'm so sorry that you had to go through this experience, but I am so thrilled that you have had such a wonderful turn around of the situation.

[@mountwalker2785]

Yes, this is homophobia and nothing else. They also banned a book about two male penguins adopting an abandonned egg which was based on a REAL story. It has nothing to do with "sexualizing" children as they claim because they would not have a problem if it was a male/female penguin couple.

[@Alltagundso]

I can totally believe that's true. 😢

[@ricklane7007]

Real male penguins do this. They might as well ban nature.

[@anetepaulakrinicka7830]

I remember, people claimed an animated fish movie to be woke, because a male seahorse was pregnant💀 Seriously Female seahorses don't have birth, male fertilizes her eggs and female ends up laying inside male seahorses and they carry offspring.

[@jencoleman6674]

📚We are so happy things worked out for the best! Yes, they have the right to refuse to sell something. Should your book have been banned? Absolutely not! It is a beautiful book (both are) with a beautiful message. We love you guys!❤

[@kellykobayashi8550]

📚❤ Keep on spreading your message of love and acceptance.

[@Caisius]

I'm glad to hear that this whole ordeal ended in a massively positive way! I wish you continued success in your journey as an author! 📚

[@VickiKolman]

These books are absolutely adorable and I have shared your KZbin readings with several friends because I thought they were so sweet. I really hope the woman who was arranging the original event is doing OK, she sounded like a strong ally. 📚

[@jwsm2]

📚 📚 Discrimination against ppl for being disabled and LGBTQIA are so wrong.I'm happy Paul that you and Matthew have a platform to speak out about these issues that unfortunately happen.The most satisfying event is when these wrongs are confronted and millions of ppl show their outrage against such awful treatment and love and support.Paul you and Matthew both turn lemons into lemonade.Wishing you guys nothing but happiness❤💙

[@user-ms3jz7ub7n]

With great power comes great responsibility. Thank you Paul for being so mindful of other people's privacy and avoiding any nasty pettiness. Your integrity has remained intact.

[@susanswensen4542]

Good for you, Paul, Mathew, and Mr Mapels. I'm happy to hear things are going better. Such a positive attitude. 😊 📚😊

[@p.b.e.]

📚I felt so heartbroken when you shared your moment of listening to their message, and admire you for your positive and reflected approach! To many more Pengroom books, can’t wait to see them in Europe! 📚📚📚

[@JactheKnave]

I just wish my bookstore could be open again to have your cute stories!Having a shop is so expensive when folks only want digital copies these days, so it makes me especially happy to see your shiny foil 😊📚

[@GeekGamer666]

I don't understand it myself. I love the feeling of the pages as I turn them, as Paul said the smell, and the satisfying weight of a hardcover book.

[@Lemon_Demon_Fan]

@@GeekGamer666 IKR also I really just don't like digital copies of stuff and it feels so satisfying just holding it I guess

[@GaarasBFF0911]

Paul, you're such a great person and I wish you didn't have to go through those experiences. The fact that you give an informative video about the prejudices against you, but don't call out the locations and just give us information is kind. You could lash out and get angry like everyone else on the internet, but the fact that you withhold that information so you can give an informative video about the problems of book banning is commendable. I'm not gay and pretty much straight, but I support you and Matthew and your book because of your kind hearted messages. You're a great guy to follow and I hope your guys stay successful 😊

[@quietone748]

I'm glad everything worked out in your favor, and that the lady up in Canada has also experienced a good outcome, as well! Your Pengrooms are simply adorable. You're a great artist.

[@avantika_singh]

📚I really do appreciate you trying to keep the mob in check. Wishing you all the success and joy in telling the stories you wish to share.

[@cttowers2577]

You have to be the nicest person on KZbin. I’m in the UK and you make me wish I owned a bookstore … if I did, I’d definitely stock your books 📚 ❤

[@susanphend2189]

I’m so happy for you that your journey has taken this beautiful turn. Your attitude toward all of this is superlative! 📚❤📚

[@tamisandlin8525]

Matthew may play a lot of crazy practical jokes, but he is SO supportive. ❤️ Thank you for sharing your story. I can't wait to get Adoroscopes. 💙

[@koellekind]

Don't spread hate, friends. Spread love.❤ Thank you both! 📚

[@sherryheyder1712]

📚 You are such a genuinely amazing soul. There needs to be so much more of you in the world. Thank you for sharing your stories. Much love from Canada.

[@sarakik9154]

📚 great video, I honestly didn't know a lot about book bans so thank you fr sharing that info!

[@ebonyskin1]

Thank you Paul for this video. I'm glad you've given more detail of what happened. I'm also glad everything worked out for your benefit . 📚

[@PlumberryPuppet]

Complete nonsequitur, but Paul is such a good, fluid speaker. And obviously I know this having watched other videos and previously listening to the podcasts and everything. But to have all these points to make in a coherent order and to speak so eloquently, where most youtubers or other media people use teleprompters, Paul is just so talented. (And yes there are cuts, but not too many and not in a disruptive way.)

[@melissasippy6629]

I looked for your books at our public library the other day and no luck 💔 i can't afford one at the moment but really wanted to share these with my kiddos so I was quite disappointed. I'll be able to get our own copies one day and support your lovely self ❤️ sending all my love from Idaho!

[@aliekegeerse]

I already watched the read aloud 📚and my pengroom plushie arrived, thank you so much for the nice note! And hearing that translations are in the works is amazing, I for sure will be gifting the book to my friends with children once Dutch comes out!

[@MsMissX]

Hi Paul. As I suggested in the last video who went viral might I suggest you try the Scandinavia market. Try and send your book to the company Gyldendal. They hae a strong present on the Danish (and I think Scandinavia market). They could be your gatekeper and tolorance for homosexuality and encouragment to learn English is strong in those countries.

[@Tichaba124]

Arne and Carlos have a great you tube presence. Check them out! They are from Norway.

[@jenniheinanen8434]

Modern day witch-hunt. People can be scary. Still, good to hear your books are being received well by the people.📚

[@stinaxer4452]

Congratulations on the turn around orders!! Also your ongoing contribution to different kinds of awareness! So good and uplifting on the heels of the "unfortunate" news before. Your philosophy on how to respond to the negative experiences is admirable indeed. 📚📚🐧🐧🧡💛💚💙💜

[@stephaniemckeegan5447]

I gave the first book to my baby cousins for Christmas, and they have loved them! I am so happy that the books have made this much traction in the book world! I can't wait for either another book or just anything you create!

[@ralphcherry617]

Such wonderful detail and background! Everything is a learning experience, isn't it? So happy for all the attention you guys are getting. ❤❤❤❤

[@janetwise3248]

Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights. I work at a library where we have to make decisions about what books to include in our catalog just as bookstores do. None of us can include every book published, we have limited space and financial resources, so in a sense we are all excluding some books. I'm glad to hear your books are getting out there anyway, because there are so many folks who need to see their families represented. Best wishes to you and Matthew.

[@chrisslemons9079]

So very well spoken. Excellent message. BTW I truly believe everything happens for a reason. You getting married so quickly after your engagement allowed you to be married before the Covid shut down AND you getting your book banned brought you tons of support and acknowledgment . You are on your way to being on the top 10 bestseller list💕