Why Do Books Get Banned?
Every year, hundreds of books are challenged or removed from classrooms and libraries. But why? What makes a book so “controversial” that some people try to keep it off the shelves? The truth is, books are banned for many reasons—but they all come down to fear of ideas and voices that challenge the status quo. Here are the most common reasons books get banned in the U.S. today:
1. Race and Racism
Books that address racism, slavery, or racial inequality are often challenged for being “divisive” or “uncomfortable.” Titles like The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison or Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Ibram X. Kendi are frequently targeted because they confront America’s history of racism directly.
- Reality check: Students need these books to understand history and to build empathy for lived experiences different from their own.
2. LGBTQ+ Identities
Stories that feature LGBTQ+ characters or themes are among the most banned. Books like Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe or All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson have been pulled from shelves because they talk openly about gender identity, sexuality, and self-discovery.
- Reality check: For LGBTQ+ youth, these books can be lifelines—offering validation, hope, and representation.
3. Politics and Power
Books that challenge authority, highlight protest, or question government policies are sometimes banned for being “politically motivated.” Even classics like 1984 by George Orwell or Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury have been censored in certain places.
- Reality check: Democracy depends on people being able to think critically about power and politics—and books make that possible.
4. Religion and Belief Systems
Books that question religious norms or present different belief systems often spark challenges. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini and even Harry Potter have been criticized for promoting ideas some see as conflicting with religious teachings.
- Reality check: Exposure to different worldviews is how students learn tolerance, empathy, and understanding.
5. Violence, Language, or Sexual Content
Some books are banned simply because they contain swearing, sex, or violence. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, which deals with sexual assault, is often targeted under this category.
- Reality check: Shielding students from difficult topics doesn’t make them disappear. Books can offer safe ways to process real-life issues.
The Bigger Picture
While the reasons vary—race, sexuality, politics, religion, or language—at their core, book bans are about limiting access to stories that challenge comfort zones. But discomfort is part of growth. Reading widely helps students see the world in its full complexity and learn how to think for themselves.
When books are banned, voices are silenced. And when voices are silenced, we all lose.