Banned Books Week: Home

Censorship has been an ongoing phenomenon even in "the land of the free." This examination of banned books across U.S. history examines the motivations and effects of censorship, shows us how our view of right and wrong has evolved over the years, and helps readers to understand the tremendous importance of books and films in our society.

In our polarized environment, the censorship and outright banning of children's books remains a major concern for libraries. The American Library Association, an intellectual freedom champion, has created this illuminating and expansive guide for book lovers who hope to teach children the importance of banned literature. With a focus on modern books that have been banned, along with classic literature that continues to be under attack for political or religious reasons, Teaching Banned Books to Kids will educate adults and children about the importance of books. With useful tools and techniques, caregivers and educators will find the best ways to talk about banned books to children.

The Librarian of Burned Books is a captivating WWII-era novel about the intertwined fates of three women who believe in the power of books to triumph over the very darkest moments of war.

Immerse yourself in the stories behind the most shocking and infamous books ever published! Banned Books explores why some of the world's most important literary classics and seminal non-fiction titles were once deemed too controversial for the public to read - whether for challenging racial or sexual norms, satirizing public figures, or simply being deemed unfit for readers.

Censored & Banned Literature examines the wide range of important literary texts that have been subjected to censorship, either at the time of their first publication, later in their history, or both. Because important works frequently offer challenging responses to social, historical, and political issues, often it is the very best works that provoke - at least initially - the most hostility or discomfort.

The author also considers why this work of fiction has been among the most widely taught--and most frequently banned--books of all time. By looking at the novel as both an artifact of the 1950s as well as a living testament to the turmoil of teenage angst, J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye provides a riveting discussion of one of the most enigmatic novels and authors of all time.

What makes a book inappropriate, even dangerous for public consumption, and who has the power to deem it so? Some governments ban books as a form of censorship. Schools and districts can ban books they consider too racy or inappropriate for their students. Does banning books take away our liberties, attempt to erase history, and impose an agenda?