Turning Page Borders: Why Some of the US’s Most Beloved Books Are Banned

Across the United States, book bans, though not new, continue to spark debates over content, censorship, and the protection of young readers. Between July 2021 and March 2022 alone, nearly 1,586 books were banned in 86 school districts across 26 states, affecting over two million students. While bans often stem from targeted concerns, such as race, sexuality, violence, or complex themes, a closer look reveals a common thread: these books encourage critical thinking, empathy, and honest conversation.

This powerful memoir tells the story of growing up Black and queer in America. With honesty and vulnerability, George M. Johnson blends personal experiences with reflections on race, gender, and identity. Despite its impact, the book has been removed from at least 29 school districts because of its explicit LGBTQ content and candid storytelling.

Maia Kobabe’s illustrated memoir is a deeply personal journey through questions of gender identity and self-expression. With graphic illustrations and open conversations about identity, the book has become one of the most challenged titles in recent years. PEN America reported that it faced 41 bans across U.S. schools during 2021–22 alone.

Toni Morrison’s debut novel is a haunting exploration of childhood trauma, racism, and the painful desire for beauty. The narrative exposes themes of sexual assault, poverty, and racial oppression, which has led to repeated bans. In 2024, it ranked third on the American Library Association’s list of most challenged books and was removed around 35 times.

Stephen Chbosky’s modern classic captures the struggles of adolescence, friendship, love, trauma, and self-discovery. It doesn’t shy away from sensitive topics like suicide, sexual abuse, and depression, which makes it deeply relatable for young readers. Yet, these very themes led to the book being banned eight times during the 2021–22 school year.

This book reinterprets history through the lens of racism, antiracism, and social change, offering young readers a framework to understand systemic inequality. Written in an engaging style, it encourages critical thinking. However, it has been repeatedly challenged by groups uncomfortable with its direct and urgent examination of race in America.

Considered one of the most controversial novels ever written, Lolita tells a disturbing story of obsession. While acclaimed for its literary brilliance, its content has sparked outrage for decades. Though not federally banned, it has been prohibited in several jurisdictions and continues to ignite debates about censorship and the boundaries of literature.

This fantasy sequel blends romance, resilience, and the struggles of trauma and consent. Its captivating worldbuilding and emotional depth have made it beloved by fans, yet its explicit romantic content has also made it a frequent target of school challenges. It has been banned in multiple districts for being “too mature” for young audiences.

Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak is a groundbreaking novel that gives voice to teenage survivors of sexual assault. It portrays trauma, silence, and the journey to healing with sensitivity and strength. Despite its importance, the novel was removed from several school libraries in 2020 for its frank discussion of assault.

Sherman Alexie’s semi-autobiographical novel follows a Native American teenager navigating poverty, race, and identity while striving for a better future. Its raw honesty and humor make it both inspiring and controversial. The book was banned more than 16 times in the 2021–22 academic year, largely for its language and mature themes.

This emotionally charged novel explores the aftermath of a school shooting and the deep wounds left in a community. Jodi Picoult sheds light on violence, bullying, and the pressures faced by teenagers. Its sensitive subject matter led to widespread removals, with the book reportedly banned from more than 98 school districts.

The root causes often include content related to: LGBTQ+ identity and sexuality, Racial history and systemic injustice, Mental health, trauma, and graphic realism. PEN America reports that LGBTQ+ themes accounted for 41% of banned books, with another 40% featuring characters of color. These patterns raise concerns about whether banning restricts vital representation and silences important narratives.

State-level actions, such as Utah’s recent first-ever statewide book ban, highlight the evolving scope of censorship. Titles by Judy Blume, Sarah J. Maas, and Margaret Atwood were removed under a law targeting "sensitive material" raising fears of vague regulations and stifled expression. Even the U.S. military’s institutions tangentially affect book access, through removal of titles centered on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

While bans stem from varying fears or concerns, these books offer spaces to challenge, empathize, and grow. Rather than erasing difficult truths, they can catalyze dialogue and deepen understanding. Protecting literary access is not about endorsing every theme—but empowering readers to learn, question, and connect.

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