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French Ministry Cancels Modernized 'La Belle et la Bête' for CM2 Students

The decision, citing unsuitability for 10-11-year-olds, has drawn accusations of censorship and ideological bias from the book's illustrator, Jul.

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Overview

  • The French Ministry of Education canceled the distribution of 800,000 copies of 'La Belle et la Bête,' illustrated by Jul, citing themes like alcohol, social media, and complex social realities as inappropriate for CM2 students without teacher guidance.
  • Jul has labeled the decision as censorship, alleging ideological bias, including objections to the representation of a more diverse cast of characters.
  • The Ministry has replaced the canceled book with 'The Odyssey,' previously distributed in 2023, for the annual 'Un livre pour les vacances' program.
  • The publisher has announced plans to release Jul's version of 'La Belle et la Bête' independently in September 2025.
  • Jul is considering legal action against the Ministry, accusing it of defamation and misrepresentation of his work.