Entertainment News #58: S.W.A.T. and Authors Against Book Bans

- Actor Niko Pepaj's character Miguel Alfaro will become a main character for the eighth season of S.W.A.T. And according to reports, actress Annie Ilonzeh will have a recurring role as character Devin Gamble. With quite a few of the main characters gone, it will be interesting to see how the new changes will work on the show. I have to say that it took a while but Alfaro totally grew on me. He's arrogant but interesting. I wonder what Devin Gamble's story is going to be? Will she be a good addition to the team or not? I guess I'll find out once the eighth season of S.W.A.T. premieres on Friday, October 18th on CBS.

- Authors Against Book Bans (AABB) is a newly launched organization that's committed to defending the freedom to read. According to reports, the group which consist of writers, illustrators and creators in both the children’s and adult sectors will work to “organize authors on the national and local levels" to support "grassroots groups already fighting book bans and challenges" around the country.

According to author David Levithan, a member of the AABB national leadership team, he said "Authors know the power of books. We know that the freedom to read and to choose books for ourselves and our families is essential to ensuring that our communities thrive." He also said, “The time has come for authors to come together and stand in solidarity on this issue, and the work of our growing membership is clear: we support authors whose work is challenged, and we support the teachers, librarians, families, and students who are on the front lines defending our books. They are not alone; authors stand with them.”

According to the AABB's press release, the group’s 1,500 members which spans all 50 states and Washington, D.C., will look to provide “support and encouragement for the educators, librarians, parents, and students who are the first line of defense against censorship, and for the authors whose books are under attack,” which also includes legislative advocacy.

For more information on Authors Against Book Bans and to get involved please click here.