The “Still Alice” actress never expected her beloved children’s book to end up on a banned list — but now, she’s speaking out.
Julianne Moore expressed shock after learning her book, “Freckleface Strawberry,” was banned in some U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) schools. On Instagram, Moore called the decision “galling,” especially since she grew up in a military family and attended a DoD school. “Kids like me… will not have access to a book written by someone whose life experience is so similar to their own,” she said.
Published in 2007, the book follows a girl learning to embrace her freckles, promoting self-acceptance. Moore questioned the ban: “What is so controversial about this picture book?” She wrote the story to teach children “we all struggle, but are united by our humanity.”
The ban stems from Trump-era policies targeting books linked to “gender ideology or discriminatory equity ideology.” The DoD is reviewing materials, limiting access to certain books. “Freckleface Strawberry” is among those under review.
Moore thanked PEN America for alerting her, emphasizing the importance of “freedom of speech and expression.” Despite the controversy, the book remains popular, helping children celebrate their uniqueness.
