The Florida Roundup

Education, expression and empathy with Brad Meltzer

Jan 16, 2026
Brad Meltzer, a best-selling author and children's writer from Florida, dives into the complexities of free expression and empathy in today’s divided society. He reflects on personal experiences, discussing how rising living costs impact families and the importance of shared values. Douglas Soule, a state government reporter, analyzes the beginning of the 2026 Florida Legislative Session, highlighting property tax proposals and new bills. Together, they touch upon censorship in schools and the crucial need for empathy in addressing divisive issues.
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ANECDOTE

Move Driven By Economic Necessity

  • Brad Meltzer recounts moving from Brooklyn to Florida as a teen after his family lost their income and living packed with grandparents in a one-bedroom apartment.
  • A neighbor named Mirce (heard as "Mercy") offered her apartment so the family wouldn't be evicted, an act Brad calls the kindest thing anyone did for them.
INSIGHT

Shared Values Still Unite People

  • Meltzer reports readers across 12 cities share core, nonpartisan priorities: safety, family, and decency despite media-driven polarization.
  • He argues current divisions feel like an attack on shared American values rather than mere policy disagreements.
ADVICE

Defend Age-Appropriate Access To Books

  • Meltzer urges resisting book removals driven by a single offended person and to use the review process to educate rather than inflame.
  • He stresses preserving age-appropriate access and pushing back when one voice removes community resources for children.
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