Reading is one of the best ways to learn, explore and broaden your horizons. However, what happens when the books you want to read are deemed unsuitable or objectionable? That is what has happened to several books recently, with some being banned in certain states for their radical ideas, controversial content, or even profanity. As a parent, it’s important to expose your children to different perspectives and ideologies, and what better way to do so than through reading?
We’ve compiled a list of 20 books that have been banned in certain states across the United States. Whether you’re looking to encourage your child to read books that challenge the status quo or simply want to be aware of books that have faced controversy, this list is sure to provide you with some interesting insights. So, grab a pen and paper and take note of these banned books – who knows what fascinating worlds they could lead you and your kids to discover.
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Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe
$17 at the time of publication.
Gender Queer is a graphic memoir written and illustrated by Maia Kobabe. The book explores Kobabe’s experience growing up, discovering their identity as a non-binary or genderqueer person, and navigating social and familial expectations. The memoir sheds light on what it means to live outside the socially constructed binary of male and female and how this can both liberate and complicate one’s experience of gender.
Kobabe’s book is an incredibly important and timely work, providing insight into the experiences of genderqueer people and helping to raise awareness and acceptance for those who identify as such. Through intricate illustrations and compelling storytelling, Gender Queer offers a vivid and powerful portrayal of a journey toward understanding oneself and one’s place in the world.
Gender Queer is one of the most banned books today.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
$8 at the time of publication.
The Diary of a Young Girl is the powerful and moving memoir of Anne Frank, a Jewish teenager who lived in hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. The diary provides a firsthand account of the horrors of the Holocaust, as well as a poignant personal reflection on the challenges of a young girl coming of age in extraordinary circumstances.
Despite facing constant danger and persecution, Anne remains optimistic and hopeful throughout her diary, expressing a deep love for life and an unwavering belief in the basic goodness of humanity. Anne’s diary has been widely read and beloved for decades, offering a glimpse into a dark period of history through the eyes of an ordinary teenage girl. The Diary of a Young Girl serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and a call to action to never forget the lessons of the past.
Despite being a book most of us read in school, this one has become a target and is being banned in many states.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
$9 at the time of publication.
To Kill a Mockingbird is a literary classic written by Harper Lee, first published in 1960. The novel is a poignant portrayal of racial tensions and social injustice in 1930s Alabama. The story is told through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl who witnesses her father, a lawyer named Atticus Finch, defend an innocent black man accused of rape.
Through Scout’s experiences, the novel explores the themes of racism, prejudice, and moral courage. To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful indictment of the societal norms and expectations that perpetuate injustice, and a tribute to the individuals who stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular or dangerous. Lee’s novel is timeless and still relevant today, reminding us of the importance of compassion, empathy, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
Most adults read this book in school, but it is now banned in many.
Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Pérez
$13 at the time of publication.
Out of Darkness is a devastating and beautifully written historical novel by Ashley Hope Pérez. Set in the East Texas oil fields in the 1930s, the novel tells the story of an African-American family living in a world of racism, segregation, and violence. Against this backdrop, Pérez weaves a heart-wrenching tale of love and tragedy, exploring the lives of Naomi, a young African-American girl, Wash, a biracial boy, and Beto, a Mexican-American boy, as they navigate the complexities of race, family, and identity.
Out of Darkness is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that speaks to the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities and the resilience and strength required to survive in a world that seeks to erase and oppress them. Pérez’s writing is beautiful and powerful, making this novel an unforgettable read.
Despite being celebrated by the American Library Association, this book has been banned in schools.
The Giver by Lois Lowry
$8 at the time of publication.
The Giver is a thought-provoking and haunting novel by Lois Lowry, first published in 1993. Set in a seemingly idyllic and highly controlled world, the novel tells the story of Jonas, a young boy who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, the one person in society who holds all the memories of the past. As Jonas learns about the world that came before his own and the dark truths that underlie his society’s quest for control, he is faced with the choice between conformity and rebellion.
The Giver explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the consequences of a desire for order and control. Lowry’s prose is spare and elegant, and her exploration of these themes is both nuanced and unforgettable. The Giver is a classic work of young adult fiction that encourages readers to question their own assumptions about what makes a happy and just society.
This beloved novel has been banned in many school districts.
All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson
$13 at the time of publication.
All Boys Aren’t Blue is a poignant and autobiographical book by George M. Johnson that explores the experiences of growing up as a queer Black person. The book is a collection of essays that detail Johnson’s journey to self-discovery and the challenges he faced in navigating his identity while growing up in a world that often tries to force people into rigid boxes.
Johnson’s book is candid and personal, offering readers a window into the struggles that queer people of color often face when trying to understand themselves and their place in the world. His work basks in vulnerability and emotional honesty and serves as an important reminder of the importance of self-love and acceptance, as well as the need for society to become more inclusive and compassionate towards marginalized communities. All Boys Aren’t Blue is a groundbreaking and essential work, touching on the intersections of race, gender expression, and sexuality while giving a voice to a population that is often overlooked and silenced.
Unfortunately, this amazing memoir has been banned in many places.
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
$7 at the time of publication.
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is a powerful coming-of-age novel that explores themes of trauma, silence, and the transformative power of self-expression. The novel follows Melinda Sordino, a shy high school freshman who becomes an outcast after calling the police to break up a party. The reason for her call is something she chooses not to reveal to anyone – a traumatic experience that has left her unable to speak about it.
Over the course of the book, Melinda gradually finds her voice through her art, which provides an outlet for her pain and anguish. Speak is a poignant and impactful novel that gives voice to survivors of sexual assault and harassment, providing an important message about the importance of breaking the silence and seeking help. Anderson’s writing is raw and honest, and the novel has been widely taught in schools and colleges to spark conversations about sexual violence and consent. Sadly, this has changed as the book is now banned in many schools.
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
$13 at the time of publication.
The Things They Carried is a masterpiece of contemporary American fiction written by Tim O’Brien that chronicles his experiences as a foot soldier in the Vietnam War. A hybrid work of fiction and autobiography, the book explores the weight of memory, trauma, and emotional baggage carried by the soldiers as they navigate the complexities of war.
O’Brien’s writing brilliantly captures the psychological and emotional toll of war on the individuals who fought it and on the society that supports it. The book is a meditation on the nature of storytelling itself, as O’Brien grapples with the blurred lines between fact and fiction and the power of narration to shape and reinterpret our memories. The Things They Carried is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human cost of war and the importance of narrative in shaping our understanding of history and personal experiences.
Despite being roundly celebrated as a masterpiece, this book is now banned in many places.
George by Alex Gino
$7 at the time of publication.
George by Alex Gino is a heartwarming and powerful middle-grade novel that explores issues of gender identity and self-acceptance. The book centers around George, a ten-year-old girl who knows in her heart that she is actually a boy but who faces discrimination and misunderstanding from those around her, including her family and classmates.
George’s journey to come out to those around her and to embrace her authentic self is both challenging and inspiring, and the novel deftly handles difficult topics with sensitivity and empathy. Gino’s writing is engaging and accessible, making it an important book for young readers who may be grappling with their own gender or identity issues or who want to gain a better understanding and appreciation for people different than themselves. Overall, George is a powerful and timely contribution to the conversation on gender diversity and an important addition to any bookshelf.
With a Scholastic pedigree, this book is still a target and is banned in many schools.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
$10 at the time of publication.
The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood that has been celebrated as a classic of feminist literature. The novel is set in the near future, in which the United States has been transformed into a theocratic state called Gilead, in which women are reduced to the roles of domestic servants and breeders,. The story is told through the perspective of Offred, a handmaid whose only job is to bear children for the families that are deemed “worthy.”
Atwood’s novel explores themes of oppression, gender inequality, and the dangers of religious fundamentalism. Her writing is haunting and thought-provoking, and her cautionary tale seems all too relevant in light of current political events. The Handmaid’s Tale is an urgent call to action to fight against forces that seek to diminish women’s rights and freedoms. With its masterful prose, complex characters, and important themes, The Handmaid’s Tale is a novel that continues to captivate and challenge readers well beyond its initial publication in 1985.
Despite its timeliness today, this book is banned in so many schools.
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The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
$13 at the time of publication.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a gripping young adult novel that tackles themes of race, power and identity. The story follows the life of Starr Carter, a 16-year-old black girl who lives in an impoverished neighbourhood but attends a suburban prep school. Her life changes when she is the only witness to the murder of her childhood best friend, Khalil, by a white police officer.
The book deals with issues of police brutality, systemic racism, and the necessity of activism. Thomas’ writing is brilliant and thought-provoking, and her unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities of racial tension and injustice makes it one of the most important books on social justice and activism for young adults in recent years. That hasn’t stopped the book from being banned in so many schools. The Hate U Give encourages readers to confront systemic injustice, and inspires them to take action against discrimination and violence in their own communities.
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
$10 at the time of publication.
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You is an essential young adult book on racism and social justice by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. The authors have adapted Kendi’s National Book Award-winning book, Stamped From The Beginning, to a form that is accessible to younger readers. The book offers an insightful and engaging history of racism in America, tracing it all the way back to its colonial roots.
The authors offer nuanced and honest insights that challenge readers to examine their deep-seated beliefs about race and equity. The book brilliantly unpacks the deeply rooted power dynamics of the concept of race, and introduces readers to the idea of antiracism, which is a key theme of Kendi’s book. Stamped is a powerful and timely resource that inspires readers young and old to take action against racism and work towards creating an equitable society. While it may be banned in many schools, we think all young readers should experience it.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
$13 at the time of publication.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou is an inspiring memoir that tells the story of Angelou’s incredibly difficult childhood, starting with her rape at the age of eight. The book chronicles her journey through poverty, racism, and trauma as she struggles to find her own way and make sense of a chaotic world.
Angelou’s vivid storytelling paints a vivid picture of life in the American South for African-Americans in the mid-20th century. In addition to its powerful themes of racial injustice and inequality, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings also celebrates self-expression, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity. It is an invaluable source of inspiration for young readers looking to confront their own struggles in life and persevere against all odds. Sadly, this classic that most of us read in school is now banned in many places.
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
$10 at the time of publication.
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck is a classic novel that explores the themes of friendship, loyalty, and dreams. The story follows two migrant workers, George and Lennie, who struggle to make ends meet in California during the Great Depression. While Lennie loves George unconditionally, George is fiercely protective of his friend.
As they search for work together and dream about owning their own farm one day, they encounter prejudice and violence from those around them. Of Mice and Men offers an unflinching look at human nature – its beauty as well as its cruelty – as it reflects on our capacity for love, loyalty, and companionship in a harsh world. It remains an inspiring work of literature today. Despite being taught in schools for decades, this book is now banned in many places.
Lawn Boy by Jonathan Evison
$13 at the time of publication.
Lawn Boy by Jonathan Evison is an uplifting coming-of-age story about a young man’s journey to overcoming adversity. The novel follows Mike Muñoz, a Mexican-American teenager from the wrong side of the tracks in a small Washington town. Despite his family’s poverty and the racism he faces, Mike excels at lawn mowing and decides to start his own business.
With determination, resilience, and hard work, Mike manages to grow his fledgling business until it becomes a thriving enterprise – with unexpected consequences for both himself and his community. Lawn Boy is an inspiring reminder of the power we each possess to achieve our dreams despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Folks itching for fascism have banned this book in many places.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
$8 at the time of publication.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle is a timeless adventure story of courage and love. The book follows a young girl, Meg Murry, and her brother Charles Wallace as they embark on a magical journey to save their father from an evil force. Accompanied by an enigmatic trio of mysterious women, the siblings travel through space and time, encountering strange alternate universes and confronting their darkest fears.
Along the way, they must rely on each other and summon unlikely allies to overcome seemingly impossible challenges. A Wrinkle in Time is an inspiring tale of resilience, hope, and the power of family that has delighted generations of readers since its publication. That has not stopped this book from being banned.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
$11 at the time of publication.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley is a chilling vision of a future dystopia where human beings are manufactured and conditioned to fit into a rigid caste system. Set in London in the year 2540, the novel follows Bernard Marx, an outsider who questions the so-called perfect society constructed from scientific and psychological manipulation.
This powerful work of speculative fiction explores themes of totalitarianism, freedom, isolation, and escapism as humanity faces an uncertain future. Brave New World is a timeless classic that forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them. This one is banned in many schools.
Beyond Magenta by Susan Kuklin
$14 at the time of publication.
Beyond Magenta by Susan Kuklin is an inspiring collection of stories exploring the lives of six transgender and gender-neutral young adults. It showcases a unique range of experiences, from coming out to navigating the complexities of gender identity.
With honesty and authenticity, each person shares their struggles, successes, and thoughts on gender politics. Beyond Magenta provides an intimate look into what it means to be transgender or gender nonconforming in today’s society. This essential read encourages readers to think deeply about gender stereotypes and to celebrate every individual’s journey to self-discovery.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
$13 at the time of publication.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is an uplifting coming-of-age story that follows Junior, a young Native American boy living on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Through humour and heartfelt moments, Junior embarks on an unexpected journey of self-discovery as he leaves his home to attend an all-white high school in a nearby town.
Along the way, he navigates challenges and struggles both academically and personally while trying to stay true to his roots. His story celebrates courage and determination as he strives for success against all odds. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a powerful read that is unfortunately now banned in many schools.
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Go Ask Alice by Anonymous
$12 at the time of publication.
Go Ask Alice by Anonymous is an unforgettable coming-of-age story about a teenage girl’s journey of self-discovery. This diary-style novel follows its heroine as she moves to a new city, makes friends, and falls in love while exploring drugs and experimenting with her identity. As she dives deeper into the world of hedonism and addiction, her struggles to maintain control become increasingly palpable.
Go Ask Alice is an honest portrait of adolescence that reflects on the power of peer pressure and shows readers the consequences that can arise from poor choices. It leaves readers reflecting on the difficult questions of life, making it a timeless classic that speaks to all ages.
Reading these banned books can spark meaningful conversations with our kids and help them learn valuable lessons about things like free speech, self-expression, tolerance, diversity, and inclusion. By introducing these classic works of literature into their lives, we are helping them develop empathy and critical thinking skills as well as a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them. Ultimately, reading banned books is an incredibly powerful way for parents to open up important dialogues with their children about life’s biggest questions.
Contents
- 1 Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe
- 2 The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
- 3 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- 4 Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Pérez
- 5 The Giver by Lois Lowry
- 6 All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson
- 7 Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
- 8 The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
- 9 George by Alex Gino
- 10 The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
- 11 The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
- 12 Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
- 13 I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
- 14 Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
- 15 Lawn Boy by Jonathan Evison
- 16 A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
- 17 Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
- 18 Beyond Magenta by Susan Kuklin
- 19 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
- 20 Go Ask Alice by Anonymous
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