Julianne Moore Responds to Trump Administration’s Decision to Remove Her Children’s Book from Some Schools

“I can’t help but wonder what is so controversial about this picture book that cause it to be banned by the US Government.”

Actor Julianne Moore has responded to the news that her children’s book, Freckleface Strawberry, was among the titles being reviewed and potentially removed from some schools under the administration of Donald Trump. The Department of Defense reportedly issued a memo last Monday, as reported by The Guardian, indicating that certain books in Pentagon schools serving military families were being scrutinized for content “potentially related to gender ideology or discriminatory equity ideology topics.” Julianne’s 2007 book, which encourages self-acceptance and celebrates individuality, was flagged for “further review.” It remains unclear whether the book has been permanently removed or is still under consideration, but the decision could impact approximately 67,000 children.

On Instagram, Julianne shared her reaction to the news, expressing her disbelief and disappointment. She explained that Freckleface Strawberry is a semi-autobiographical story about a seven-year-old girl who learns to embrace her freckles and accept her uniqueness. Julianne wrote, “It is a book I wrote for my children and for other kids to remind them that we all struggle, but are united by our humanity and our community.”

The Oscar-winning actress also highlighted her personal connection to the Department of Defense schools, noting that she attended Frankfurt American High School in Germany as the daughter of a Vietnam veteran and U.S. Army officer. She expressed pride in her father’s service but lamented that children in similar circumstances might now be denied access to her book. “I am truly saddened and never thought I would see this in a country where freedom of speech and expression is a constitutional right,” she concluded.

Celebrities, including Halle Berry, Bella Thorne, and Dylan Mulvaney, voiced their support in the comments, with many echoing Julianne’s concerns about censorship and the impact on young readers. The situation has sparked broader discussions about the importance of diverse voices and stories in children’s literature.