PEN America in the news for its ongoing free-expression advocacy amid rising bans and censorship; nonprofit founded in 1922, NYC-based.
China's new law promotes ethnic unity by mandating Mandarin in education and public life, criminalising separatism, and extending its reach outside borders. It emphasizes social cohesion but raises concerns over minority rights and cultural suppression, especially for Uyghurs, Tibetans, and Mongolians. The law is set to be passed today.
Since April and into May 2026, multiple US universities have faced commencement and campus controversies over invited speakers and events related to Israel, free speech and protest. NYU is keeping Jonathan Haidt as its Yankee Stadium commencement speaker despite student government opposition; Rutgers has rescinded an invitation to alumnus Rami Elghandour; Georgetown Law replaced Morton Schapiro after student objections; and campus groups are clashing over guest appearances and platforming.
Peter Beinart has published a book critically examining Jewish identity and Israel's role in Gaza's devastation. The book questions inherited narratives and advocates for Palestinian rights, amid ongoing debates about Jewish loyalty and ethics. The PEN award recognizes this shift in discourse.
Rozie Kelly’s debut Kingfisher follows a nameless male narrator in a complicated, obsession‑driven relationship with a famous older poet. The novel opens with a shock of lust and moves through illness, care duties and a spiralling dynamic, exploring desire, race, and the limits of control. The Guardian discusses the book alongside other major debuts this season.
Independent, author-owned bookstores have expanded in the U.S., with a surge in ABA membership and ventures from Patchett, Erdrich, Groff and Straub. Stores range from Birchbark in Minneapolis to An Unlikely Story in Plainville, reflecting a broader mission beyond selling books.
A wave of author-owned bookstores across the U.S. is reshaping independent bookselling. Notable spaces founded by Judy Blume, Louise Erdrich, Lauren Groff, Jeff Kinney and George R.R. Martin are expanding in Brooklyn, Minnesota, Florida, Massachusetts and New Mexico, offering community hubs beyond Amazon-dominated retail.