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Published September 22, 2019
Each year, the American Library Association uses Banned Books Week to highlight censorship. This year, Banned Books Week is Sept. 22-28.
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Here are the 11 most challenged books in 2018.
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11.
Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan
Stated reasons for challenges: For including LGBTQ content
Ember
10.
This Day in June by Gayle E. Pitman, illustrated by Kristyna Litten
Stated reasons for challenges: For including LGBTQ content
Magination Press
9.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
Stated reasons for challenges: Profanity, violence, gambling, underage drinking and for its religious viewpoint
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
8.
Skippyjon Jones series written and illustrated by Judy Schachner
Stated reasons for challenges: For depicting stereotypes of Mexican culture
Dutton Juvenile
7.
This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki, illustrated by Jillian Tamaki
Stated reasons for challenges: It includes profanity and sexual references
First Second
6.
Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
Stated reasons for challenges: It discusses teen suicide
Razorbill
5.
Drama written and illustrated by Raina Telgemeier
Stated reasons for challenges: For featuring LGBTQ characters and themes
GRAPHIX
4.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Stated reasons for challenges: It was deemed “anti-cop,” and includes profanity, drug use and sexual references
Balzer + Bray
3.
Captain Underpants series written and illustrated by Dav Pilkey
Stated reasons for challenges: The series is perceived as encouraging disruptive behavior. This specific book includes a same-sex couple
Scholastic Corporation
2.
A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo by Jill Twiss, illustrated by EG Keller
Stated reasons for challenges: LGBTQ content
Chronicle Books
1.
George by Alex Gino
Stated reasons for challenges: It mentions “dirty magazines,” describes male anatomy and includes a transgender character
Scholastic Press