Your 2025 Banned Books List

By keely aouga

Literature has always been a powerful way of conveying experiences while offering education about various subject matters.

Some of these subjects have encouraged freedom of speech, therefore threatening oppressive governments and regimes.

Banned Books

As a result, books have been getting banned for years. Over the last couple of years, the American Library Association has seen an increase in restrictions.

We've compiled a list of banned books, including classic works of literature and award-winning titles. 

'Farenheit 451'

This dystopian novel by Ray Bradbury presents a world where "firemen" burn books because they are outlawed to censor society. 

'The Bluest Eye'

Toni Morrison's first novel follows a young girl who is mistreated because she is dark-skinned.  

'To Kill a Mockingbird'

Even though the novel's defenders say it opens up important conversations about systemic racism, it was challenged for its portrayal of Black people.

'The Handmaid’s Tale'

This is a dystopian novel about a future where women are oppressed in a totalitarian state. The titular series adaptation of the book can be streamed on Hulu. 

'The Poet X'

Written by the spoken word poet Elizabeth Acevedo, this is a coming of age story. The book was challenged as being anti-Christian in a Federal District Court case. 

'Gender Queer: A Memoir'

This memoir tells the author’s journey into adulthood as they explore sexuality and their gender identity. It voices the experience of being nonbinary.

'The Hate U Give'

This story follows a teenage girl navigating two worlds. Amandla Stenberg plays the main character in the film adaptation.

Click below for a quick and informative Black history lesson.

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