By Allyson Mower, Librarian

Being free to read is essential for establishing an overall sense of autonomy and self-determination. Reading in community is also crucial so that one’s sense of freedom does not lead to isolation or alienation. When books get challenged, it represents a concern with regard to individual freedom, but also an underlying issue with community cohesion, flourishing, and thriving. It usually represents a place of fear: fear of confronting ideas, truths, realities, or even our own emotions. At times, reading takes courage and these seven challenged (and also very popular) books are a great place to start. Not sure why they’ve been challenged? Go read them for yourself and see if you find something that would want you to stop other people from also reading them.

There are other titles to explore. The American Library Association maintains a Top Ten Most Challenged list. And be sure to attend one of the library’s Banned Books Week events to learn about other challenged and banned books.

Bless Me, Ultima
By Rudolfo Anaya

Julie of the Wolves
By Jean Craighead George

The Color Purple
By Alice Walker

Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl
By Anne Frank

The Hate U Give
By Angie Thomas

Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic
By Alison Bechdel

Persepolis
By Marjane Satrapi