Which books have recently been challenged/banned?
September 23, 2019
Celebrate the freedom to read with Richland Library. We’re joining other libraries, booksellers, publishers, journalists, teachers and readers across the country to mark Banned Books Week, which runs September 22-28.
Almost 500 books are on record of receiving challenges or bans within the last year. The titles may surprise you. Some are popular picks or even considered “must reads.” Here’s a look at the top 11 most challenged books in 2018:
- “George” by Alex Gino
- “A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” by Jill Twiss, illustrated by EG Keller
- “Captain Underpants” series written and illustrated by Dav Pilkey
- “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
- “Drama” written and illustrated by Raina Telgemeier
- “Thirteen Reasons” Why by Jay Asher
- “This One Summer” by Mariko Tamaki, illustrated by Jillian Tamaki
- “Skippyjon Jones” series written and illustrated by Judy Schachner
- “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie
- “This Day in June” by Gayle E. Pitman, illustrated by Kristyna Litten
- “Two Boys Kissing” by David Levithan
Concerns over profanity, drug use, violence, sexual references, religious viewpoints and suicide are the primary reasons that many of these books were challenged or banned.
According to the American Library Association, Banned Books Week has united the entire book community for more than 30 years in shared support of the freedom to seek, to publish, to read and to express ideas – even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular.
About Richland Library
Awarded the National Medal in 2017 by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Richland Library is a vibrant, contemporary organization that provides resources and information that advance the Midlands. Offering state-of-the-art technology, a variety of literary and cultural programs and 12 bustling facilities located throughout the county, Richland Library provides a truly customizable, modern library experience for residents and visitors alike.
