17 Banned Books That Are A Must-Read
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links. I will make a small commission if you make a purchase through one of these links, at no extra cost to you. See full disclosure and disclaimer policy HERE.
Books, those unassuming vessels of ink and paper, have always held the power to inspire, provoke, and, sometimes, stir up controversy. Throughout history, many books have faced the wrath of censorship, being banned for challenging the status quo or for portraying ideas deemed too radical, inappropriate, or offensive. Yet, it is often these very books—the ones that societies have tried to silence—that carry messages too important to be ignored. In this article, we’re going to dive into some of the most compelling banned books that you should definitely add to your reading list.
Table of Contents
- Why Are Books Banned?
- The Must-Read Banned Books
- 1. 1984 by George Orwell
- 2. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- 3. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
- 4. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
- 5. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
- 6. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
- 7. Beloved by Toni Morrison
- 8. The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
- 9. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
- 10. Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
- 11. Animal Farm by George Orwell
- 12. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
- 13. Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
- 14. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
- 15. Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
- 16. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
- 17. A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Are Books Banned?
Before we get into the books themselves, let’s talk a little about why books get banned in the first place. Usually, it boils down to content that some find objectionable. This could be anything from political ideas, religious beliefs, sexual content, or even language that people deem offensive. In some cases, it’s about protecting certain societal values, but in others, it’s more about controlling narratives and ideas.
But here’s the thing: banning a book often gives it more attention, turning it into a symbol of resistance and a beacon for free thought. So, while these books were shunned by some, they were also embraced by others for the very reasons they were banned.
The Must-Read Banned Books
1. 1984 by George Orwell
Why It Was Banned: Orwell’s dystopian novel was banned and challenged in various countries, including the United States and the former Soviet Union, for its explicit critique of totalitarian regimes and its unsettling portrayal of government surveillance.
Why You Should Read It: 1984 is more relevant today than ever before. It serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and the erosion of personal freedoms. Orwell’s concept of “Big Brother” has entered the global lexicon, reflecting ongoing concerns about privacy in the digital age. This book will make you question the world around you and the structures that govern it.
RELATED:
Review: The Unsettling (Yet Awesome) 1984 by George Orwell
2. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Why It Was Banned: This American classic has been banned in many schools due to its themes of racial injustice, the use of racial slurs, and its portrayal of rape. Critics argued that it was too controversial or offensive for young readers.
Why You Should Read It: To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful exploration of racial inequality and moral integrity in the American South during the 1930s. Through the innocent eyes of Scout Finch, Harper Lee exposes the deep-seated prejudices of society. It’s not just a story about a courtroom—it’s a call to examine our own beliefs and biases.
RELATED:
Review: To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
3. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Why It Was Banned: Salinger’s novel has been banned and challenged in schools across the United States for its vulgar language, sexual content, and rebellious themes. The protagonist, Holden Caulfield, has been seen as a poor role model for young readers.
Why You Should Read It: The Catcher in the Rye is more than just a tale of teenage angst. It’s a deep dive into the struggles of finding one’s identity and the pain of growing up in a world that feels overwhelmingly fake. Holden’s voice is raw, real, and unapologetic, making this book resonate with anyone who’s ever felt out of place.
RELATED:
Review: The Catcher In The Rye by J.D. Salinger
4. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
Why It Was Banned: This novel was banned in Ireland and Australia and faced challenges in various schools for its portrayal of a dystopian future where people are controlled through technology, drugs, and conditioning. It was considered immoral and offensive, particularly because of its views on sexuality.
Why You Should Read It: In Brave New World, Huxley presents a world where happiness is manufactured and individuality is suppressed. It’s a cautionary tale about the dangers of consumerism, the loss of personal freedom, and the pursuit of artificial pleasure. This book will leave you questioning the cost of comfort and convenience in modern society.
RELATED:
Review: The Dystopian Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
5. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Why It Was Banned: Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel has faced numerous bans due to its explicit content, including violence, sexual abuse, and its portrayal of African American women’s lives. Some schools and libraries deemed it inappropriate for young readers.
Why You Should Read It: The Color Purple is a powerful, heart-wrenching story of resilience and empowerment. It sheds light on the struggles of African American women in the early 20th century and their fight for dignity and self-worth. Walker’s narrative is both brutal and beautiful, and it will leave you with a deep appreciation for the strength of the human spirit.
RELATED:
Review: The Perplexity of The Color Purple by Alice Walker
6. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Why It Was Banned: This classic dystopian novel was banned and challenged in various schools for its themes of censorship, the suppression of dissenting ideas, and its criticism of society.
Why You Should Read It: Fahrenheit 451 explores a future where books are outlawed and “firemen” burn any that are found. It’s a powerful commentary on censorship and the importance of free thought and the exchange of ideas. Bradbury’s novel is a stark reminder of the dangers of an uneducated, uncurious society.
RELATED:
Review: The Relevant Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
7. Beloved by Toni Morrison
Why It Was Banned: Morrison’s novel has faced bans and challenges due to its graphic depictions of slavery, violence, and sexual content. Some deemed it too intense and explicit for young readers.
Why You Should Read It: Beloved delves into the haunting legacy of slavery in America through the story of a former slave haunted by the ghost of her deceased daughter. It’s a deeply emotional and evocative exploration of trauma, memory, and the struggle for identity and freedom.
RELATED:
Review: The Controversial Brilliance Of Beloved by Toni Morrison
8. The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Why It Was Banned: This American classic was banned and even burned in some places for its stark portrayal of the struggles of migrant workers during the Great Depression. Critics labelled it as socialist propaganda.
Why You Should Read It: The Grapes of Wrath is a profound exploration of human resilience in the face of adversity. Steinbeck’s depiction of the Joad family’s journey is a powerful social commentary on economic injustice and the plight of the disenfranchised.
RELATED:
Review: The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
9. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Why It Was Banned: Atwood’s dystopian novel has been banned and challenged due to its themes of sexual violence, religious extremism, and the subjugation of women. Some found its content too disturbing or controversial.
Why You Should Read It: The Handmaid’s Tale presents a chilling vision of a future where women’s rights are stripped away in the name of religious purity. Atwood’s novel is a powerful exploration of power, control, and resistance, making it an essential read in contemporary discussions about gender and freedom.
RELATED:
Why You Should Read Margaret Atwood: Her Best Novels
10. Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Why It Was Banned: Vonnegut’s novel has been banned for its explicit language, depictions of war, and perceived anti-American sentiments. Critics argued that it was inappropriate for young readers.
Why You Should Read It: Slaughterhouse-Five is a unique and poignant anti-war novel that blends science fiction with historical events. Vonnegut’s dark humour and unconventional narrative style make it a compelling read that challenges the glorification of war.
RELATED:
Why You Should Read Kurt Vonnegut: His Best Novels
11. Animal Farm by George Orwell
Why It Was Banned: This allegorical novella was banned in various countries for its critique of totalitarian regimes and its use of farm animals to represent political figures and ideologies.
Why You Should Read It: Animal Farm is a brilliant and accessible satire of political power and corruption. Orwell’s simple yet powerful story about a group of farm animals who overthrow their human owner only to face a new tyranny is a timeless reminder of the cyclical nature of power and oppression.
RELATED:
Why You Should Read George Orwell: His Best Novels
12. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Why It Was Banned: Twain’s novel has faced bans and challenges due to its racial language and depictions of race relations, which some considered offensive and inappropriate for schools.
Why You Should Read It: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a seminal work in American literature that explores themes of freedom, friendship, and societal norms through the adventures of Huck and Jim, a runaway slave. Despite its controversial language, it provides critical insights into America’s racial history.
13. Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
Why It Was Banned: Nabokov’s novel has been banned and challenged for its explicit and controversial subject matter, including the depiction of a man’s obsession with a young girl.
Why You Should Read It: Lolita is a complex and provocative novel that delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and morality. Nabokov’s lyrical prose and the psychological depth of his characters make it a disturbing yet masterful work of fiction.
14. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Why It Was Banned: Chbosky’s novel has been banned in some schools for its portrayal of teenage sexuality, drug use, and mental health issues. Critics argued that it was inappropriate for young readers.
Why You Should Read It: The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that captures the struggles and triumphs of adolescence. Through the letters of Charlie, a shy and introspective teen, Chbosky addresses important issues like identity, friendship, and healing.
15. Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
Why It Was Banned: Ellison’s novel has faced bans and challenges for its depiction of race relations, violence, and language that some found offensive.
Why You Should Read It: Invisible Man is a powerful exploration of identity and invisibility in a racially divided society. Ellison’s narrative follows an unnamed African American man’s journey to find himself in a world that refuses to see him. It’s a profound and deeply moving work that continues to resonate today.
16. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Why It Was Banned: The Kite Runner has faced bans and challenges in schools and libraries for its depictions of sexual violence, ethnic tensions, and its portrayal of complex relationships in a war-torn Afghanistan. Some critics felt the content was too intense and disturbing for young readers.
Why You Should Read It: The Kite Runner is a poignant and emotional novel that explores themes of redemption, guilt, and the impact of personal and political events on an individual’s life. Hosseini’s storytelling is powerful, and the novel offers a deep, empathetic look at the human condition and the struggles faced by those living in conflict zones. It’s a moving narrative that opens up important conversations about forgiveness, loyalty, and the consequences of our actions.
RELATED:
Review: The Beauty of Redemption In The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
17. A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
Why It Was Banned: This novel has been banned and challenged for its graphic depictions of violence, delinquency, and its exploration of free will and moral choice. Some found the novel’s content disturbing and feared it might influence impressionable readers.
Why You Should Read It: A Clockwork Orange is a ground-breaking work of speculative fiction that delves into the nature of violence and the concept of free will. Through the story of Alex, a young delinquent, Burgess challenges readers to consider what it means to be truly human and whether the suppression of free will is worth the cost of peace. The novel’s unique use of language and its philosophical depth make it a thought-provoking read that continues to spark debate.
RELATED:
Review: The Morally Complex A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
Conclusion
Banned books are more than just controversial reads—they’re essential ones. They challenge us to think critically, question authority, and empathize with experiences different from our own. By reading these books, you’re not just thumbing your nose at censorship; you’re engaging with ideas that have shaped, and continue to shape, the world.
So, the next time you’re looking for something to read, consider picking up a book that someone, somewhere, didn’t want you to.
FAQs
Did you like it? Pin this post for later!
