Books have the power to inform, educate, and entertain us. However, not all books are welcome in all places.
The desire to read banned books often increases their popularity, leading to a more widespread discussion of its contents and themes. In this article, we will explore the reasons and controversies surrounding banned books, and why they continue to be an important topic in the literary world.
Throughout history, many books have been banned or censored for a variety of reasons, causing controversy among readers, authors, and publishers alike. The reasons for banning a book are varied and complex, from political and religious views to concerns over sexual content or violence.
List of Banned Books 2023
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – Banned for its racial themes and use of profanity.
- “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger – Banned for its sexual content and use of profanity.
- “1984″ by George Orwell – Banned for its political themes and criticism of communism.
- “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker – Banned for its sexual content and use of profanity. It is also banned for its depiction of violence against women and its discussion of sensitive topics.
- “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley – Banned for its sexual content and criticism of religion.
- “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky – Banned for its sexual content and use of drugs.
- “Beloved” by Toni Morrison – Banned for its sexual content and use of profanity.
- “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck – Banned for its use of profanity and derogatory language.
- “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain – Banned for its use of racial slurs and derogatory language.
- “The Harry Potter series” by J.K. Rowling – Banned for its depiction of witchcraft and wizardry. This ban came as a surprise to me as this basically a fiction book series with no questionable content.
- The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie has been banned for its depiction of violence against Native Americans, use of profanity, and discussion of sensitive topics such as suicide.
- The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood has been banned for its depiction of a dystopian future in which women are forced to be handmaids, or reproductive slaves.
- The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison has been banned for its depiction of racism, its use of profanity, and its discussion of sensitive topics such as child abuse.
2021-2022 extended list for banned books can be found at CBS.
Impact of Banned Books
Writers who are willing to tackle controversial themes may find themselves facing censorship or even legal action. This can make it difficult for them to share their work and ideas with the world. In some cases, entire genres or types of books may be banned, limiting the literary landscape and leaving readers with fewer options. It is important to recognize the impact that banned books have on our culture and society. While it is understandable that some people may find certain ideas or themes uncomfortable or upsetting, it is important to have open and honest discussions about these topics. Banning books only serves to limit our understanding of the world and stifle progress.
The books that are banned because of racial slurs, should also mention the era in which they were written. At the time it was the norm, however constant struggle for equality was still going on and have come so far for the better, obviously. Though banning some books that discuss the ideas that are far from what we as a society consider acceptable, makes sense. Banning them may make their distribution restricted.
Ideas and facts that shaped and wrote the history should not be banned. Reflects on the society is a useful. As history is not always kind to its subjects.