Each year, libraries celebrate Banned Books Week by speaking out against censorship and highlighting books that have been banned or challenged in schools or libraries across the United States.
If we didn't read books that spark controversy, we wouldn't have the ability to develop and expand our minds. Why is it important to raise awareness of this issue? Because everyone has the freedom to read what's appropriate for them. One way to celebrate that freedom is to read banned books. Here are three teen titles that have been banned.
13 Reasons Why: High school teen Hannah commits suicide after being bullied and betrayed. She leaves behind an audio diary explaining the 13 reasons why she did it, and these tapes arrive at classmate Clay's house two weeks after her death.
The Absolutely True Diary of A Part-time Indian: Junior, an aspiring cartoonist growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation, is determined to take his future in his own hands. He leaves his school on the rez to attend an all-white high school in town.
The Hate U Give: 16-year-old Starr Carter she moves between two worlds: Garden Heights, the poor neighborhood where she lives, and the fancy suburban prep school she attends. After Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend at the hands of a police officer, she's faced with staying quiet or telling what really happen. This, however, could endanger the lives of those she loves.
Check out more recommended banned books here. What's your favorite banned book?
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