Breaking Mirrors and Windows: Pinkalicious Among List Of Hundred Of Books Banned In Wilson County, TN
A Conversation with Author Victoria Kann
The latest book to be removed from the shelves of libraries and public schools is the pink and sparkly Pinkalicious, the beloved 2006 children’s book that launched a bestselling series. With the tagline “Pink is perfect,” the story follows Pinkalicious Pinkerton, an eight-year-old girl passionate about all things pink—especially pink cupcakes. Over the years, Pinkalicious has expanded into over 80 books, a television series, a podcast, and a stage musical, making it a staple in children’s literature.
Many were shocked to learn that Pinkalicious was banned from Wilson country, Tennessee schools under House Bill 843, the Age-Appropriate Materials Act. According to the Nashville Banner, this law mandates that all school library materials be “suitable for the age and maturity levels of the students” and align with the “educational mission of the school.” However, no official reasoning has been provided for Pinkalicious’s removal. The book was one of over 400 titles banned in Wilson County, Tennessee, including No, David!, Wacky Wednesday, and a long list of young adult and adult books such as The Hate U Give, Fight Club, and A Clockwork Orange.
The few list of books can be seen here
Curious about the impact of this decision, I reached out to Pinkalicious author Victoria Kann for her thoughts on the ban and the broader implications of book censorship. She told me she first learned of the ban through social media, when supporters of children's literature and musical theater informed her that her book—along with hundreds of others—had been pulled from Wilson County schools and public libraries. Kann was stunned.
When asked why she thought her book had been banned, she said she wasn’t entirely sure but speculated that it may have been due to an illustration of Pinkalicious standing in in her underwear. If this was truly the reason, she found it absurd and disheartening. If you are unfamiliar with the book, it is an image of a cartoon child who has turned pink and is standing in their underwear with their arms out by their side.
“It’s important that children find books that excite them—books that stay with them,” she said. “Books challenge minds and invite critical thinking, help children take on multiple perspectives, and encourage imagination. Banning books limits these opportunities.”
Kann shared a troubling example of how book bans are expanding. She had been scheduled to speak at a book festival where the headlining author was suddenly denied participation—solely because their book featured a gay main character. As a result, the entire festival was canceled forever. “Books help children develop a sense of identity,” she explained.
We spoke about how, as an early childhood educator, my goal is to provide children with mirrors and windows. It is our job and responsibility to provide mirrors and windows to children, staff, families, and our neighbors. The phrase “mirrors and windows” refers to the practice of offering children both opportunities to see reflections of themselves (mirrors) and opportunities to observe differences in the world (windows).
Children need to see themselves and their families reflected back to them. When children see themselves represented in their communities, it builds their confidence and self-esteem, fostering a sense of belonging. When they do not see themselves, they may wonder, "Why does no one look like me? Is there something wrong with me? Where do I fit in?" This absence can send a harmful message.
When we provide our children with mirrors and windows, they notice. Librarians and public school teachers believe they must provide these essential perspectives to the broader community. We know that representation matters and that inclusion is necessary to reduce bigotry and hate. Offering mirrors and windows fosters empathy and compassion. By banning books, we’re reducing exposure to different cultures and ideas, stifling understanding instead of nurturing it.
Beyond harming children’s learning and growth, Kann believes book bans undermine teachers and librarians. “Educators select books thoughtfully. To override their expertise sends a harmful message” a message that suggest that teachers and other educators can’t be trusted.
Despite the ban, Kann remains committed to making books accessible. It is her priority “to provide children free access to books”. She has reached out to Wilson County libraries and offered to send copies of her books, along with hosting a storytime. “Children are the future,” she said. “They deserve to know the world—not to have it hidden from them out of fear.”
Kann emphasized that Pinkalicious is, at its heart, a book about creativity, kindness, imagination, and self-expression. It is a book that shows children that kindness is essential and that empathy and compassion matter. “When you take away a book because of one single page, you’re erasing all the other messages it has to offer.”
As book bans increase, beloved stories are disappearing from shelves for the flimsiest of reasons. Books are meant to inspire, challenge, and spark imagination—yet more and more are being hidden from public access. If this trend continues, we risk creating a world where children are deprived of the stories that shape and empower them.
I spoke with Victoria on the phone from her home on the East Coast, where she lives with her family.
Wilson County, Tennessee, is the 19th largest country in the state and home to roughly 147,737 people. The district oversees 25 public schools and several libraries and is a 40-minute drive outside of Nashville.
