Ripley’s, the company behind the popular Believe It or Not! franchise, is responding to news that three of its books have been temporarily banned in a Florida school district by offering Sunshine State residents a free book.
Last month, it was revealed that the school district in Escambia County, Florida, had temporarily removed more than 1,600 books from its libraries, including five dictionaries, eight encyclopedias, 23 Stephen King novels, and three Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! books. The removals were a reaction to a Florida law that prohibits schools from having sexually explicit books available to students.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a century-old franchise that presents unusual facts and historical events in books, museums, and other formats. They are particular popular with young readers.
In a news release, Ryan DeSear of Ripley Entertainment said, “The very idea of banning these books is worthy of entry to Ripley’s Believe It or Not!. Ironically, Escambia County officials are practically authoring our next book for us! While Ripley’s response to this issue is a bit tongue-in-cheek, we very much encourage all Florida residents to claim their free copy and decide for themselves.”
Florida residents interested in having a free book mailed to them can sign up through May 15 on the Ripley’s website. They can also bring a state ID to Ripley’s attractions in Panama City Beach, Orlando, and St. Augustine to get a copy.
Michael Schaub is a contributing writer.
