About this book
After the death of her estranged mother, who left Ohio years ago to live with her lesbian partner in New York City, seventeen-year-old Shawna Gallagher's life is transformed by revelations about her family, her best friend, and herself.
Censorship history
Say the Word was banned or restricted in United States in 2025 for its LGBTQ+ themes and positive depiction of queer identity, as well as sexual content. This case is part of a global pattern in which LGBTQ+ representation in literature faces disproportionate legal and institutional pressure.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2025 | LGBTQ+Sexual |



