Banned Books Week 2021: Teen Books That are Frequently Banned or Challenged

Posted on October 2, 2021

by Talena R

I confess! I did it! I am guilty! Guilty of reading banned and challenged books, that is, especially during Banned Books Week. Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read and is typically held during the last week of September.  Participants highlight current and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools. In 2020, The American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom tracked 156 challenges to library, school, and university materials and services.

Of the 273 books that were targeted, this list compiled by the American Library Association contains the most challenged titles, along with the reasons cited for censorship. How many have you read? There are plenty of banned or challenged books and eBooks available at your local library to get you started.  The frequently challenged titles below are written for teen audiences or presented to teens in schools.

Cover of Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You

eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You

eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of George

George

eAudiobook   |   eBook   |   Playaway
Cover of George

George

eAudiobook   |   eBook   |   Playaway
Cover of The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Book on CD   |   eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Book on CD   |   eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of Speak

Speak

eAudiobook   |   eBook   |   Playaway
Cover of Speak

Speak

eAudiobook   |   eBook   |   Playaway
Cover of The Hate U Give

The Hate U Give

Book on CD   |   eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of The Hate U Give

The Hate U Give

Book on CD   |   eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of All American Boys

All American Boys

eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of All American Boys

All American Boys

eAudiobook   |   eBook
Cover of This One Summer

This One Summer

eBook
Cover of This One Summer

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