Must-Read Banned Books You Should Add to Your TBR Right Now

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In recent years, the rise of book bans across the United States has sparked fierce debate, with titles ranging from The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison to Jodi Picoult’s novels finding themselves on banned or challenged lists. The American Library Association and PEN America have consistently documented cases where books are banned for “sexually explicit” content, graphic depictions, or themes related to gender identity and race. From school board meetings in New York to small-town libraries, books like The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and even Harry Potter are often targeted for their language or “obscene” themes.

Yet, despite being banned, these books continue to resonate with readers. Whether it’s a powerful novel by Margaret Atwood or a thought-provoking graphic novel, the importance of reading these stories is undeniable. As book bans grow more frequent, now is the time to explore these challenged books and add them to your TBR—because stories that provoke such strong reactions deserve to be read.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

This award-winning novel follows Junior. A Native American teenager, as he leaves his reservation school for a predominantly white high school in search of a better future. Alexie’s work combines humor with raw truth. Depicting Junior’s struggles with poverty, identity, and systemic racism while offering a poignant, often hilarious look at life on the reservation.

Reason for Ban: This is on the banned books list for its explicit language, depictions of sexual content, and themes of violence, which some find controversial.

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

In this groundbreaking novel, Toni Morrison explores themes of race, beauty, and identity through the life of Pecola Breedlove. An African American girl who longs for blue eyes to escape her traumatic life. Morrison’s lyrical prose and deep social commentary make this a powerful read that challenges societal norms and exposes deep-seated prejudices.

Reason for Ban: Frequently challenged for its graphic depictions of incest and rape, and for its exploration of race and identity, which some view as “obscene” or inappropriate.

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Holden Caulfield, the novel’s disenchanted teenage protagonist, takes readers on a journey through New York City as he grapples with his place in a world he finds phony and hypocritical. Salinger’s portrayal of teenage angst, mental health issues, and rebellion has made this classic a touchstone. Exploring adolescent identity and alienation.

Reason for Ban: Banned for its use of strong language, sexual content, and themes of mental health and rebellion.

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

The magical world of Hogwarts, brought to life by J.K. Rowling, has captivated millions of readers with its imaginative storytelling and rich, complex characters. The series follows Harry Potter as he battles dark forces and discovers his own strength and courage. Despite its widespread acclaim, it has faced challenges for its portrayal of witchcraft and themes perceived as anti-Christian.

Reason for Ban: Frequently challenged for promoting witchcraft and magic, along with perceived anti-Christian themes and dark content.

Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe

This graphic memoir offers an intimate exploration of Maia Kobabe’s journey with gender identity and sexuality. Through evocative illustrations and candid narratives, Kobabe addresses themes of self-discovery and acceptance, providing a vital perspective for readers exploring similar experiences or seeking to understand different identities.

Reason for Ban: Banned for its explicit depictions of sexual content and discussions of gender identity, which some find inappropriate for certain age groups.

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Set in a dystopian future where women are subjugated and controlled by a totalitarian regime, Atwood’s novel is a chilling exploration of power, oppression, and resistance. The story of Offred, a handmaid in the Republic of Gilead, serves as both a powerful warning and a profound examination of gender roles and autonomy.

Reason for Ban: This is on the banned books list for its graphic violence, sexual content, and exploration of political and sexual oppression.

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

Marjane Satrapi’s graphic memoir captures her childhood and early adulthood in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. Through stark, expressive illustrations and personal narrative, Satrapi offers a unique perspective on the impact of political upheaval on individual lives and the struggle for personal freedom.

Reason for Ban: Challenged for its depictions of violence and political content, which some find inappropriate or controversial.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Harper Lee’s classic novel provides a profound commentary on racial injustice in the American South through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl whose father, Atticus, defends a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. The book’s exploration of morality, empathy, and racial prejudice continues to provoke thought and discussion.

Reason for Ban: Banned for its racial themes and the use of racial slurs, which some consider offensive or inappropriate.

Looking for Alaska by John Green

In this moving and poignant novel, John Green explores the life-changing experiences of Miles “Pudge” Halter as he navigates friendship, love, and loss at a boarding school. The book’s exploration of grief and its portrayal of adolescent relationships make it a deeply impactful read, despite its controversial elements.

Reason for Ban: Challenged for its depiction of sexual content and language, which some find unsuitable for young readers.

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Khaled Hosseini’s gripping novel delves into the complexities of friendship and redemption against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s tumultuous history. The story follows Amir and Hassan as they navigate their fraught relationship and the impact of past traumas on their lives. The book’s vivid storytelling and emotional depth make it a compelling, if controversial, read.

Reason for Ban: Banned for its explicit content and themes of sexual violence, which some find disturbing or inappropriate.

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Morrison’s haunting narrative explores the legacy of slavery through the story of Sethe. An escaped enslaved woman who is haunted by the ghost of her deceased daughter. The novel’s powerful portrayal of the psychological and emotional scars left by slavery. Offering an important, though challenging, perspective on American history.

Reason for Ban: This is on the banned books list for its graphic depictions of violence and sexual content, which some find unsettling or inappropriate.

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

In this evocative novel, Alice Sebold tells the story of Susie Salmon. A young girl who watches from the afterlife as her family and friends cope with her murder. The book’s unique narrative perspective and exploration of grief and justice make it a compelling read, despite its controversial themes.

Reason for Ban: Challenged for its depiction of rape and violence, which some consider too disturbing for certain audiences.

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

This poignant YA novel follows Melinda, a high school freshman who becomes mute after being sexually assaulted. Through her inner thoughts and reflections, Melinda finds her voice and the strength to confront her trauma. Speak has become a powerful narrative on the importance of speaking out against abuse. Resonating deeply with readers of all ages.

Reason for Ban: Banned for its frank depiction of sexual assault and discussions of violence. Which some find too mature for younger audiences.

The Giver by Lois Lowry

Set in a seemingly utopian society. The Giver tells the story of Jonas, a young boy chosen to become the Receiver of Memories. As he uncovers the dark truths about his community. The novel explores themes of conformity, and free will, and the complexities of human emotions. Lowry’s haunting narrative forces readers to question the cost of a controlled, “perfect” society.

Reason for Ban: Challenged for its themes of euthanasia, infanticide, and dystopian control, which some find unsettling or inappropriate for young readers.

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Bradbury’s iconic novel takes place in a future where books are illegal, and “firemen” burn any that are found. Through the story of Guy Montag, a fireman who begins to question society’s ban on literature. The book explores themes of censorship, knowledge, and individuality in a world where critical thinking is stifled.

Reason for Ban: Banned for its portrayal of book banning and perceived anti-authority themes, as well as explicit language and discussions of violence.

These banned and challenged books offer a rich tapestry of perspectives and stories that reflect crucial social and personal issues. Despite their controversy, they remain essential reads for anyone interested in understanding the power of literature to challenge and inspire.

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