Read Banned Books: Celebrate the Freedom to Think

Read What They Don't Want You To!

Books can challenge ideas, spark conversation, and inspire change. Yet, throughout history, many books have been banned or challenged for addressing controversial themes, questioning authority, or simply presenting perspectives that make some uncomfortable. Reading banned books is an act of resistance, a way to support intellectual freedom and ensure that diverse voices are heard.

From classics like To Kill a Mockingbird and 1984 to modern works such as The Hate U Give, banned books often tackle critical social issues — racism, censorship, gender identity, and government control. When a book is banned, it’s usually because it speaks a difficult truth or encourages readers to think independently. That’s precisely why these books matter.

Reading banned books is more than just an act of defiance; it’s a way to expand your worldview. These books introduce us to new perspectives, challenge biases, and foster empathy. Engaging with controversial literature opens the door to meaningful discussions and critical thinking.

Censorship limits access to information and ideas, but readers have the power to push back. Libraries, bookstores, and organizations like the American Library Association champion the right to read, celebrating Banned Books Week to highlight the importance of free expression.

If a book is deemed too dangerous to read, it’s probably worth reading. So, pick up a banned book. Share it. Discuss it. Defend the freedom to read—because stories should never be silenced.