Julianne Moore shocked as her book faces ban

Julianne Moore has expressed surprise after learning that her children's book, "Freckleface Strawberry," is reportedly under review for potential banning by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) during Donald Trump’s presidency, Fox News reports.

Moore's announcement comes amid a review of educational materials by the Department of Defense following orders to end diversity programs.

On social media, Moore stated that she was "shocked" to find out about the potential ban on her book by the Trump Administration. "Freckleface Strawberry," released in 2007, tells the story of a young girl who grows to accept her freckles and personal uniqueness.

The Department of Defense has not confirmed a formal removal of the book. Instead, the DoDEA has stated it is undergoing a review of its instructional resources, prompted by recent executive orders aimed at reassessing educational materials.

Moore Highlights Personal Connection to DoD Schools

Moore's connection to the defense department's educational network runs deep. As a graduate of Frankfurt American High School, a DoD school in Germany, Moore expressed the personal significance of the matter. "I am particularly stunned because I am a proud graduate of Frankfurt American High School," she shared.

This development follows Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's announcement on January 26, 2025, where he declared the cessation of all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This action aligns with President Trump’s executive order issued on the day of his inauguration.

According to Moore, the inability of military children to access her book is disheartening. "It is galling for me to realize that kids like me, growing up with a parent in the service... will not have access to a book written by someone whose life experience is so similar to their own," she noted.

A Book About Embracing Differences

Moore describes her book as semi-autobiographical, focusing on a seven-year-old girl who learns to accept her freckles as part of her identity. A description of Amazon also emphasizes the book’s theme of embracing differences.

The DoDEA clarified that during the review process, materials being evaluated will see access restricted to professional staff only. They assure that no materials, including Moore's book, have been completely removed from school libraries as of the announcement.

Moore's reaction extended beyond her personal social media, where she praised her father's military career. "I grew up with a father who is a Vietnam veteran and spent his career in the US Army. I could not be prouder of him and his service to our country," she stated.

Uncertainty Surrounding Future Access

The ongoing review by the DoDEA leaves the future availability of "Freckleface Strawberry" uncertain in schools operated by the Department of Defense. While the book’s status awaits a final decision, the temporary limitation on access affects military families.

Moore voiced her concerns, wondering what in her "picture book... so controversial" could lead to the government oversight it is experiencing. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether the review will result in a permanent material ban.

This has added to the broader conversation about federal oversight in educational content, particularly under guidelines that prioritize recent government directives on diversity programming.

Greater Implications for Educational Policy

As the review continues, questions remain about how this aligns with broader policy initiatives affecting educational institutions. The implications of such potential bans weigh heavily on creators like Moore, whose works resonate personally with those in similar circumstances.

Public discussions about diversity, acceptance, and representation in educational materials have gained traction following the mentioned executive orders. The outcome of these reviews may set precedents for future instructional resources under governmental oversight.

Whether or not "Freckleface Strawberry" will return to the reaches of defense department schoolbooks will depend on the outcomes of these executive actions and the DoDEA's subsequent decisions.