About this book
"Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry" by Joya Goffney follows the journey of Quinn, a high school senior who accidentally loses her journal filled with personal thoughts and insecurities, leading to an unexpected adventure alongside a classmate named Tarek. As Quinn navigates her fears, grapples with relationships, and confronts her vulnerabilities, the novel explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and the complexities of growing up. The book is significant for its authentic portrayal of teenage issues and the importance of embracing one's true self in a society that often promotes unrealistic ideals.
Censorship history
In 2024, "Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry" by Joya Goffney faced bans at the school level across various districts in the United States, primarily due to its LGBTQ+ content, sexual content, offensive language, and perceived immorality. Specific challenges were raised by parent-teacher associations and local advocacy groups, leading to school board votes that upheld the bans in several instances. The book's removal from school libraries sparked protests from students and free speech organizations, highlighting ongoing debates about censorship in educational settings. As of late 2024, the status of the book remains contested in some districts, with ongoing discussions about its reinstatement.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2024 | LGBTQ+SexualLanguageMoral |