The picture book Guess How I Was Born? by Australian author Susanne Gervay has sparked significant controversy as it faces bans in various schools and libraries across Australia. This book, which aims to celebrate family diversity and inclusion, is being challenged due to its themes surrounding race, sexuality, and social justice.
Jackie French AM, a prominent author, praised Gervay’s work, calling it “a book of joy, wonder and science, and endless love.” The timing of this controversy is particularly poignant as Australia prepares to celebrate National Families Week in May, which coincides with the United Nations International Day of Families on May 15. This event highlights the importance of all family types, including those formed through adoption, same-sex relationships, and assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF.
Gervay expressed her disappointment at the book’s bans, stating, “I thought everyone would celebrate Guess How I Was Born?. Such a joyful, funny, inclusive picture book. I was crushed by it being banned in schools.” The author noted that she received notifications from her speaking agencies that she was prohibited from presenting her work in certain venues.
The narrative of Guess How I Was Born? draws from Gervay’s personal experiences, particularly her daughter Tory’s journey through infertility and her eventual decision to pursue IVF and surrogacy. Tory faced significant health challenges, including kidney disease, which made carrying a baby dangerous. After multiple unsuccessful IVF attempts, the family found hope through surrogacy in the United States.
Gervay aims to ensure that children and parents from all backgrounds can see their family structures represented in literature. The book serves as a resource for educators and families to discuss the diverse ways children come into the world. Its illustrations, created by Carolyn Daly, complement the story’s themes of love and acceptance.
Despite the challenges, Gervay remains committed to promoting the book, which is intended for children aged four to eight. It encourages open conversations about family diversity, aiming to foster understanding and acceptance among young readers. The book is set to be published by LarrikinHouse in 2025, with an ISBN of 9781923345102.
As Australia reflects on its progress toward inclusivity, the situation surrounding Guess How I Was Born? highlights ongoing debates about censorship and the importance of representation in children’s literature. Gervay’s hope is that by addressing these themes, the book will find its place in educational settings, providing a platform for all families to feel acknowledged and celebrated.
