Maggie Tokuda-Hall on the 9-Year Journey to 'What Do People Do at the Science Museum?'

https://prettyokmaggie.com/ In this episode of ***The Book Faire Podcast***, host Anthony sits down with **Maggie Tokuda-Hall**—children’s and YA author and co-founder of **Authors Against Book Bans**—to explore her new non-fiction picture book, ***What Do People Do at the Science Museum?*** (illustrated by Chin Leng). Maggie shares the fascinating nine-year journey from an initial California Academy of Sciences tour to the book's long-awaited release, explaining how the text serves as a behind-the-scenes celebration of the scientists, taxidermists, and science communicators who make STEM accessible to young readers. Maggie details her social research process interviewing marine biologists and planetarium experts, while breaking down a deliberate vocabulary update made during production: transitioning from "citizen scientist" to **"community scientist"** to ensure public participation in science remains un-gatekept and welcoming to all. Shifting into literary defense, Maggie offers a sharp, urgent analysis of modern censorship tactics. She breaks down why book challenges target public institutions and marginalized voices, why public libraries remain essential centers for voluntary inquiry, and how four proposed federal book banning bills threaten millions of dollars in state public school funding. **Teachers, school librarians, and literacy advocates** will gain valuable insights into **science communication in the classroom**, **curriculum-aligned non-fiction**, and practical ways to support local library staff while defending the **freedom to read**. Plus, Maggie previews her newly released haiku picture book, ***Bathtime for Snow Monkeys***, and her upcoming companion title, ***What Do People Do at the Library?*** Takeaways - Importance of community science - Impact of book bans Chapters - 00:00 Introduction to Children's Literature and Book Bans - 05:52 The Research Process Behind the Book - 10:58 Community Science and Engagement - 16:49 The Role of Libraries and Book Bans - 24:00 Final Thoughts on Writing and Impact