by iPub Staff

From September 22-28, 2024, libraries, readers, and advocates across the country will unite for Banned Books Week—a time to celebrate the freedom to read and stand against censorship. This annual event highlights the importance of unrestricted access to ideas, even those that challenge, provoke or make us uncomfortable. In a world where diverse voices and stories matter more than ever, Banned Books Week reminds us that limiting access to books can have a profound impact on our ability to engage with different perspectives.

At iPub Cloud International, we’re proud to be part of Banned Books Week 2024. To honor the occasion, our staff compiled a list of their favorite banned books and why these stories resonate with them. These books aren’t just works of art—but vital conversations about society, identity, and human experience. Join us in celebrating the freedom to read and explore the stories that have shaped our world, even in the face of opposition.

Queer History A to Z: 100 Years of LGBTQ+ Activism by Robin Stevenson

“In this exploration of the history of LGBTQ+ activism in North America, middle-grade readers can learn about the key people who led the fight for equality, the events that brought about change and the places where history was made. Presented in an A to Z format, with one topic per letter (“P Is for Pride”), the entries include subjects such as coming out, pride flags, Jazz Jennings and the Stonewall Inn. Young readers will be particularly interested in learning about youth activists such as Gavin Grimm, the history of the first gay-straight alliance and the ongoing issue of banned children’s books in America.”

~Sandy Mayer, Director at iPub Global Connection

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

“The book was a bit before its time, challenging societal norms and high school hierarchy. The importance of it was navigating the confusing life of being a teen, while also looking for social acceptance and acceptance of self. This book highlights the importance of being there for others while also focusing on one’s health, mentally and physically. Each character is carefully created to relate to parts of life but, also to connect with the audience, reminding readers that though they may feel alone, they aren’t.”

~Jessica Dillon, intern at iPub Global Connection

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This book was #12 on ALA’s list of most challenged books from 2008 – 2010 for its “religious viewpoint, dark themes/violence, unsuitability to age group”, as well as claims against offensive language, sexuality, and being anti-family. Aside from some U.S libraries, it has also been banned in Thailand, Vietnam, and India.

“It is the best Dystopian YA out there in terms of writing – every word has significance, every image has layered meaning. For example, the love triangle between Peeta, Katniss, and Gale also represents Katniss’s figuring out her worldview: will she choose hope and humanity or will she choose destruction and vengeance? The novel also depicts how people in power separate lower classes (in this case, the districts with their identifying exports and sending tributes to literally fight each other), as well as the effect of war on individuals, and how ordinary people may be driven to do radical things whether or not they mean to. The reasons the book has been banned are the reasons it should be read: it makes people question power, it encourages people to connect with each other, shifting the balance of power from wealthy individuals to the masses. Teaching these lessons through narrative to young adults can help them form healthier problem solving skills, be considerate of people who are different from them, and most importantly may prevent them from growing into individuals who abuse the system for their own advantage, leading to a happier, more fulfilling future for everyone around them. If you’ve only seen the movies, please read The Hunger Games!”

~ Tori Abuschinow, Publication Intern at iPub Global Connection

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

“My first encounter with this book was in audio form, and I have to say that Bahni Turpin’s reading of it is absolutely gripping; I ended up listening to the whole book in one day! This is a profoundly important story because it sheds light on critical issues of racial injustice, police brutality, and the complexities of identity. Through the eyes of Starr Carter, a Black teen who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed friend by police, Thomas’ novel explores the deep emotional and societal impact of systemic racism. It gives voice to marginalized communities and challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths, making it an essential and timely read that promotes empathy, understanding, and the urgent need for social change. I consider this book a must-read.”

~Carolyn Wooddall, Social Media Manager at iPub Global Connection