Frequently Banned Books

Award-winning author and artist Mike Curato tells a difficult story with humor, compassion, and love in his graphic novel Flamer, endorsed by Jarrett J. Krosoczka. Aiden navigates self-discovery and acceptance at summer camp.

2016 Winner of the Norma Fleck Award. ALA Honor Book. A comic book for kids about bodies, gender, and sexuality. Opens up conversations for young people and caregivers.

Melissa knows she's a girl, not a boy named George. When she's told she can't play Charlotte in the class play, she sets out to reveal her true self with her friend Kelly's help.

Award-winning author Alex Gino tells the story of Rick, a boy who navigates his own identity beyond his jerk of a best friend, in a middle school setting.

A heartwarming story about young Casey, who loves sparkly things, and his older sister Jessie learning to accept and respect his unique interests.

Winner of Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor & NAACP Image Award, actress Lupita Nyong’o's debut picture book explores colorism & self-esteem.

Winner of Newbery, Coretta Scott King, & Kirkus Prize! Graphic novel about fitting in at a new school where diversity is low. Tween must-read!

Candlewick relaunches a modern classic about a girl with two mommies, showcasing diverse family structures and the importance of love.

Introducing the chapter book edition of the #1 New York Times bestseller on racism and antiracism in America, for kids to learn and grow.

2020 ALA Alex Award Winner & Stonewall - Israel Fishman Non-fiction Award Honor Book. Maia Kobabe's Gender Queer is a powerful autobiography exploring gender identity.

Mia Tang must navigate life in a motel, hiding immigrants and pursuing her dreams as a writer. Will she overcome challenges and succeed?

A timely and important story about racial injustice and police shootings, aimed at helping children understand and counter racism in their own lives.

2019 Sibert & Orbis Pictus Honor Book. NPR's Guide To 2018’s Great Reads. Award-winning Cherokee community story of gratitude & traditions.

Celebrate love in all forms with this heartwarming picture book about a worm wedding. A joyful story with a message of inclusivity and acceptance.

Heartwarming picture book about a transgender boy becoming a big brother, winner of the 2020 Stonewall Book Award. Celebrates love, acceptance, and family transitions.

"A heartwarming story of unconditional love and acceptance, inspired by a family's journey with their Princess Boy. A call for tolerance and an end to bullying."

Quiet Faith joins school soccer team, forging friendship with misfit teammates. "The Breakaways" by Cathy G. Johnson celebrates unity and individuality.

Winner of the 2020 ALA Alex Award and Stonewall Israel Fishman Non-fiction Honor. Gender Queer is a cathartic autobiography on self-identity.