Our Mission
At ReadSafe Ratings, our mission is to empower authors, librarians, and readers with transparent, voluntary book content ratings.
We believe in preserving the integrity of books and upholding every author’s right to be heard—while helping parents and communities make informed choices.
We created this program in response to new threats like Texas SB13 and SB412, which make it alarmingly easy for any book to be challenged and removed based on a single complaint. Our ratings provide clear, neutral information—not censorship—so that books stay on the shelves and in the hands of readers.
Why Ratings Matter
The idea of book ratings might seem new, but it’s already a trusted practice in music, movies, and video games.
For books, a voluntary, author-led rating system does three essential things:
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Protects authors by giving them a proactive tool to address vague or arbitrary complaints.
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Supports librarians and booksellers in navigating new laws and community pressures with confidence.
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Empowers readers—including parents and teachers—to choose books that fit their needs, without restricting creativity.
Research shows that book bans disproportionately impact marginalized authors and limit access for everyone. Our system gives authors and librarians a way to push back against censorship while fostering open dialogue.
How It Works (Expanded)
Step 1: Submit Your Book
Authors submit their book manuscript, choose a rating package (Basic, Standard, or Premium), and provide basic book details.
Step 2: Neutral Content Review
Our reviewers assess the book’s content based on these clear, expanded rating definitions:
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C (Children’s Books): For children under 6—safe, positive content only.
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G (General Audiences): All ages—no strong language, violence, or adult themes.
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PG (Parental Guidance Suggested): Mild language or thematic elements—parental guidance recommended.
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PG-13 (Teen Readers): Moderate violence or sexual references—ages 13+.
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R (Mature Readers): Strong language, intense violence, explicit scenes—ages 17+.
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NC-17 (Adults Only): Explicit content or graphic violence—adults only.
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Additional Labels: EL, V, SC, DA, ST—added for even clearer context.
Step 3: Share Your Rating
Authors receive:
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Their book’s assigned rating and content warnings.
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A digital badge to promote their rating online.
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High-quality stickers (optional) to add to their book for retailers, schools, or events.
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Inclusion in the ReadSafeRatings Directory—a trusted resource for libraries, schools, and communities.
Step 4: Build Community Support
By participating, authors show that they’re responsible stewards of their stories and committed to readers’ freedom of choice.
We encourage authors and librarians to meet locally or virtually to discuss the program, build support, and advocate for creative freedom.
Join the Movement
We’re stronger together.
By joining ReadSafeRatings, you’re helping to protect your book, your voice, and the freedom of readers everywhere. Let’s stand united against censorship—and ensure every story has the chance to be heard.
Ready to get involved?