In 2024, the contentious issue of book banning in the United States reached a significant peak. PEN America documented over 10,000 individual book bans during the 2023-2024 school year, which impacted approximately 4,200 unique titles. These bans primarily targeted books addressing themes such as sexuality, race, gender identity, and social justice, sparking intense debates about censorship and the rights of readers.
Most Controversial Books of 2024
Among the most challenged and banned books in 2024 are the following notable titles:
1. “Nineteen Minutes” by Jodi Picoult
This novel explores the aftermath of a school shooting, delving into issues of bullying, trauma, and the complexities of human relationships. Readers have challenged it for its graphic content and sensitive themes.
2. “Looking for Alaska” by John Green
A coming-of-age story that tackles themes of love, loss, and identity. Some areas banned the book due to its portrayal of teen sexuality, substance use, and profanity.
3. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky
This popular novel follows a socially awkward teenager navigating friendships, mental health, and personal trauma. Readers frequently challenge it for its depictions of sexual abuse, drug use, and LGBTQ+ themes.
4. “Sold” by Patricia McCormick
A harrowing story of a young girl from Nepal who is trafficked into sexual slavery. The book’s explicit descriptions of abuse often draw censorship, despite its advocacy for awareness of human trafficking.
5. “Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher
This novel focuses on teen suicide and its devastating ripple effects. Communities have banned it due to its graphic depiction of suicide and bullying, although it sparks critical conversations about mental health.
6. “Crank” by Ellen Hopkins
A gritty portrayal of addiction and its consequences, inspired by the author’s own family experiences. Its raw and explicit content has led to frequent challenges.
7. “Identical” by Ellen Hopkins
This dark, poetic novel deals with themes of family dysfunction, sexual abuse, and identity. Readers have banned it for its explicit content and heavy subject matter.
8. “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
Set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s tumultuous history, this novel explores friendship, betrayal, and redemption. Readers have challenged it for its depictions of sexual violence and religious tensions.
9. “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood
A dystopian classic that examines themes of oppression, gender roles, and authoritarianism. Readers have banned it for its sexual content and critique of patriarchal systems.
10. “Water for Elephants” by Sara Gruen
A historical novel set in a traveling circus, it explores themes of love, loyalty, and cruelty. Readers have banned the book for its depictions of animal abuse, violence, and sexual content.
Major Events in Book Banning for 2024
One of the most striking developments in 2024 was Utah’s implementation of the first statewide book ban in the U.S. The state’s Board of Education banned 13 books across all public schools under a new law addressing ‘objective sensitive material.'” This list included works by beloved authors like Judy Blume and Sarah J. Maas. The banned titles include:
- “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
- “A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas
- “A Court of Wings and Ruin” by Sarah J. Maas
- “A Court of Frost and Starlight” by Sarah J. Maas
- “A Court of Silver Flames” by Sarah J. Maas
- “Empire of Storms” by Sarah J. Maas
- “Forever” by Judy Blume
- “Oryx & Crake” by Margaret Atwood
- “Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur
- “Blankets” by Craig Thompson
- “Fallout” by Ellen Hopkins
- “Tilt” by Ellen Hopkins
- “What Girls Are Made Of” by Elana K. Arnold
Critics warn that this decision could chill freedom of expression and education. The law mandates the legal disposal of these books once removed, banning their sale or distribution and raising concerns about potential book destruction.
Why Are Books Being Banned?
Groups often challenge books because of content that may include:
- Sexuality and Gender Identity: Books that feature LGBTQ+ characters or discuss gender identity have been particularly targeted.
- Race and Social Justice: Stories that address systemic racism or racial identity are often labeled as “divisive” or “inappropriate.”
- Mental Health and Trauma: Readers frequently challenge books dealing with sensitive topics such as depression, suicide, or abuse, even though these books provide solace and understanding.
The surge in book bans prompts questions about freedom of speech, access to knowledge, and the role of schools in fostering critical thinking. Advocates emphasize that restricting access to these books stifles open dialogue and deprives students of opportunities to explore diverse ideas.
Organizations like PEN America and the American Library Association (ALA) have been at the forefront of efforts to combat censorship. The ALA’s annual “Banned Books Week” highlights the importance of protecting the right to read and encourages communities to stand against book banning.
Resources and Advocacy
For those interested in learning more or taking action, the following resources offer valuable information:
- PEN America: Provides detailed reports on book bans and their implications.
- American Library Association: Maintains a comprehensive list of challenged and banned books.
- Banned Books Week: An annual event celebrating the freedom to read.
Banned Books List 2025
As of early 2025, information on banned books for the year is still developing. Recent reports indicate continued challenges to books addressing themes of race, gender identity, and mental health. While no comprehensive list has been published yet, organizations like PEN America and the American Library Association (ALA) are closely monitoring book bans in schools and public libraries.
Notably, several challenges have already been reported in districts across the U.S., focusing on books that explore LGBTQ+ topics and social justice issues. This trend suggests that 2025 will likely follow the trajectory set in previous years, with debates over censorship and freedom of expression remaining at the forefront.
For the latest updates, readers can follow resources such as PEN America’s reports and the ALA’s continuously updated lists of challenged books.
Final Thoughts
As the debate over book bans continues, it is clear that the conversation extends beyond the books themselves to larger questions about education, representation, and the values we uphold as a society. Whether one supports or opposes specific book bans, it is essential to engage thoughtfully and critically with the issues at hand.