Banned Books

Whether they are restricted from a library, a school board, a PTA group, or otherwise, we want to highlight the books that others say are too scandalous or disturbing to read. We believe that all books deserve to be read, whether you agree with its content or not. If there is something that offends you, try reading about it from the alternate point of view to your own to gain wisdom, perspective, and empathy. THEN you can engage in meaningful discussion about the topic.

We do not censor books or authors. We encourage you to research why some familiar titles have been added to Banned Book Lists, and decide for your self whether its content is something you choose to consume. If it's not for you, then pass on it and let others make up their own minds about it's themes or content. Are some of the words and themes going to be outdated? Certainly. Are there going to be references and names used that are inappropriate to our modern culture? Sure. But that doesn't mean that the book needs to be banished. It is a marker of its time, evidence to the culture and humanity that existed when it was written. A piece of history. Considering how many dark and creatively scandalous stories are published to wide popularity today, let's not be too critical of the past, shall we?

Some reputable places to research Banned Book lists in North America:

American Library Association

Penguin Random House Canada

CBC

Freedom To Read

Bibliocommons

North Vancouver School District