Julianne Moore’s ‘Freckleface Strawberry’ Banned by Defense Department Schools

ARLINGTON, Va. — Actress Julianne Moore expressed her shock and dismay after learning that her children’s book, Freckleface Strawberry, was included on a list of library books suspended for review by the U.S. Department of Defense. The ban, motivated by recent executive orders from the Trump administration, aims to evaluate materials related to gender identity and equity.

In an Instagram post on Sunday, Moore shared her sorrow over the news, stating, “It is a great shock for me to learn that my first book has been banned by the Trump Administration from schools run by the Department of Defense.” The actress, known for her roles in films such as Boogie Nights and Still Alice, described her book as a semi-autobiographical tale about a seven-year-old girl who learns to embrace her freckles and recognize her uniqueness.

Last week, the Department of Defense (DoD) distributed a memo announcing the suspension of library access for seven days while assessing materials for compliance with the administration’s views. Books marked for “further review” include titles deemed related to gender ideology or discriminatory equity ideology topics, according to DoD spokesperson Will Griffin.

Moore, a proud graduate of the now-closed Frankfurt American High School, expressed her discontent, particularly as she is a daughter of a Vietnam veteran. “I could not be prouder of him and his service to our country. It is galling for me to realize that kids like me will not have access to a book written by someone whose life experience is so similar to their own,” she said.

The review, which may affect books across schools serving U.S. military families, aligns with two executive orders focused on countering what the administration labels “radical indoctrination.” Other books on the suspension list include No Truth Without Ruth by Kathleen Krull, which chronicles the life of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Moore, who described the reasoning behind the ban as perplexing, stated, “I can’t help but wonder what is so controversial about this picture book that has caused it to be banned by the U.S. government.” She emphasized her book’s message of unity and perseverance amidst struggles.

Several celebrities, including Kate Bosworth and Elizabeth Perkins, voiced their support in response to Moore’s post. Perkins commented, “This is insanity. I can’t believe this.”

The American Library Association criticized the DoD’s actions, labeling the guidance as “shameful censorship” that erases diverse voices and perspectives. They assert that this move violates the First Amendment rights of military families to access varied educational materials.

Moore concluded her reflection by expressing her disbelief, stating, “I never thought I would see this in a country where freedom of speech and expression is a constitutional right.”