Author Visit Scheduled For 3 Fairfield Schools Canceled At 11th Hour

FAIRFIELD, CT ? A visit this week to three Fairfield elementary schools by children's author Chad Sell was canceled days before it was to take place, requiring the Fairfield Library to step in to host a discussion of his book "The Cardboard Kingdom: Snow and Sorcery."

Sell, a Connecticut resident who is gay, had been scheduled to visit Burr, Riverfield, and Holland Hill schools on Thursday, but will now visit the library the same day from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The event was originally organized by Madison-based RJ Julia Independent Bookstore, which will provide copies of the book for purchase.

Lori Fazio, president and COO of RJ Julia Independent Booksellers, said in an email to Patch that Fairfield Schools Superintendent Michael Testani told her that the event was canceled "due to a parent complaint about content."

Patch reached out to Testani about the cancellation, but did not immediately receive a reply.

According to Pen America, Sell's first book in the trilogy, The Cardboard Kingdom, is one of 450 books recently banned in Iowa schools.

"We are so excited to have author Chad Sell visit to present on his newest installment in the Cardboard Kingdom Series: Snow and Sorcery," Fairfield Library officials wrote in a statement, adding that all are welcome to the event, but it is geared toward students in grades 3 through 6. "This will be followed by an opportunity for questions and a book signing."

Space is limited, so registration is required to attend the Thursday event.

According to Sell, the Cardboard Kingdom series "is a graphic novel series about kids, creativity, and cardboard! The books follow a variety of children who all live and play in the same neighborhood."

"Set during winter break, Snow & Sorcery has tons of fun snowball fights, ice palaces, and exciting new characters!" Sell's website states. "There are also incredibly emotional chapters with so many of the kids you already know and love!"