Frequently Banned & Challenged Books

Return to Elfhame with Holly Black's illustrated addition to the Folk of Air trilogy, exploring the dramatic life of high king Cardan from a new perspective.

A heartwarming summer story at Camp QUILTBAG where Abigail seeks community and Kai faces identity challenges, finding joy in being true to themselves.

Engage young children in important conversations on race, gender, consent, and body positivity with this topic-driven board book series.

Young Casey loves sparkly things, but his sister initially disapproves until bullies help her learn to accept and respect him for who he is.

An inspiring children's book about colorism and self-esteem, featuring a girl on a magical journey to discover her true beauty. By Lupita Nyong'o.

Celebrating love, this picture book follows the wedding of two worms in a heartwarming story of acceptance and equality.

Award-winning graphic novel about Jordan Banks, a seventh grader navigating life at a prestigious new school where diversity is lacking. A timely and honest story of fitting in and staying true to oneself.

Join the journey from past to present in this essential chapter book introducing the history of racism and antiracism in America. #1 NYT bestseller!

Coming of age as a fat brown girl in a white suburb is tough, especially when your whole life is on fire. Charlie Vega navigates body image and relationships in this honest and funny coming-of-age story.

Award-winning author Alex Gino tells the story of Rick, a boy exploring his own identity away from his jerk best friend. Middle school brings new opportunities for self-discovery.

Winner of awards and accolades, Front Desk tells the story of Mia Tang who manages a motel, hides immigrants, and pursues her dream of becoming a writer amidst challenges.

2020 ALA Alex Award Winner and Stonewall Israel Fishman Non-fiction Award Honor Book for Gender Queer, a poignant autobiographical comic about gender identity.

The Fletcher brothers face unexpected challenges at school and home, learning humorous and heartwarming lessons along the way. Praise from School Library Journal and Kirkus Reviews for this modern family tale.

Award-winning author explores queerness in a novel featuring nonbinary protagonist Sam and their quest to honor photographer Alice Austen in a history contest.

Winner of the 2021 In The Margins Award. Alok Vaid-Menon challenges the world to see gender in full color, breaking down the binary in Beyond the Gender Binary.

A nonbinary teen navigates family, friendship, and identity as they face unexpected challenges while starting public school for the first time.

Let's Talk About It is a graphic novel guide for teens navigating questions about relationships, identity, body image, and more. Growing up is complicated.

A forgotten typewriter helps a boy search for his missing mom in San Francisco, revealing past memories along the way.

Award-winning author Kwame Alexander tells the harrowing story of American slavery through a teacher's perspective. Stunning illustrations by Dare Coulter.

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

Meet the Fletchers: two dads, four adopted brothers, two cats, one pug. A funny summer on Rock Island with surprises, humor, and heartwarming moments.

New York Times bestselling series BAD GUYS, now a major motion picture! Hilarious and action-packed adventures of wannabe heroes.

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.