Banned Books

Welcome to Week 5 of the She Reads Everything 2026 Reading Challenge. This week is all about banned and challenged books.

Censors remove books from libraries and schools when they object to the content, often citing LGBTQ+ themes, race, sexuality, violence, profanity, or differing beliefs. These books, even if banned in some settings, may be accessible elsewhere. Limiting access to varied literature affects students, educators, and communities by restricting exposure to diverse perspectives. Removing access to literature encourages reflection on censorship, the importance of multiple viewpoints in literature, and ongoing efforts to safeguard intellectual freedom.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Key Characteristics of Banned Books

• A banned book is removed from a library or school.
• A challenged book is one that someone has tried to remove or limit.
• Books are often challenged or banned for addressing complex or uncomfortable issues.

Examples of Banned Books

There are well over 10,000 banned books, with more removed from libraries and schools each year. A list of banned and challenged books is available on the Barnes & Noble and Amazon websites.

She Reads Everything 2026 Reading Challenge

If you’re not familiar with the reading challenge, take a look at the guidelines here. Join the reading challenge Facebook group to track your progress.