Top 5 Favorite Banned Books

To celebrate Banned Book Week, I am going to share my top 5 favorite banned books with you all!  The books on this list were banned for a variety of reasons, but they all hold a place close to my heart.  Let me know in the comments what your favorite banned books are!

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1. ​The Perks of Being a Wallflower  by Stephen Chbosky
For the past four years, I have loved this book.   The story never fails to tug at my heartstrings, and I find myself going back to reread this novel again and again.  I will not say too much except to anyone who has not read this book, find a copy immediately.
Reasons it was banned:

• Presence of “homosexuality, date rape, masturbation, and the glorification of alcohol use and drugs."  Newsletter on Intellectual Freedom, May 2015, p. 69.

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2. Fahrenheit 451 ​by Ray Bradbury

I actually read Fahrenheit 451 ​in eighth grade English, but it has become one of my personal favorites nonetheless.  The novel speaks volumes about the importance of intellectual freedom and how it is important to both value and fight for the freedoms we sometimes take for granted.
Reason(s) it was banned: 

• Supposedly went against religious beliefs
• Usage of mild language

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3. Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling
Like many readers and writers, this series had a deep impact on my childhood and love of reading.  I cannot put into words how much I cherish this series.
Reason(s) it was banned:

• Witchcraft

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4. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle

A Wrinkle in Time was one of my favorite novels when I was young as I was fascinated by the incredible story.  If you haven't read it yet, this is a must-read!
Reason(s) it was banned:

• Witchcraft

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5. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
When I read this book at age 10, I liked the book but did not understand the underlying meanings and themes.  It was not until I reread To Kill a Mockingbird in ninth grade English when I finally understood the true masterpiece Harper Lee had crafted.  
Reason(s) it was banned:

• Racial themes
• Mentions rape
• Racial slurs
• Mild language

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These five "banned" books shaped my life in deep and impactful ways.  I am so blessed to have had the freedom to read all of these books, and if the need ever arises I will fight for future generations who wish to read these incredible pieces of literature.  Which banned books have changed your life?  Let me know in the comments!

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