This Banned Books Week (October 1-7, 2023), let’s celebrate our freedom to read by exploring some of the most-challenged picture books that still belong on every child’s shelf. As a librarian, I believe these poignant tales promote diversity, acceptance, and social justice and are vital for young readers. Unfortunately, many parents, schools, and libraries have sought to ban these books for tackling sensitive issues like racism, gender, and family structures. Join me in appreciating these affirming stories that give EVERY child a mirror and a window into our beautifully diverse world. Reading opens minds and changes lives, so please keep these treasures where little eyes and hearts can find them.
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones
A young student is assigned a family tree project, but can only trace back three generations. After talking with her grandmother, she learns that their ancestors were kidnapped from Africa 400 years ago, but they survived through hope and community while forging a new identity.
Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuh
When Sylvia Mendez’s family moved to Westminster, California, she was excited to attend her local school, but she and her brothers were turned away and forced to enroll in a separate “Mexican school.” After unsuccessfully appealing to the school board, the Mendez family filed a lawsuit that ultimately ended segregated schooling in California in 1947, paving the way for the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case.
Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe, Ron Butler, et al.
Jean-Michel Basquiat grew up in Brooklyn wanting to be a famous artist, and his graffiti-inspired paintings did make him a phenomenon in the 1980s art world. Though he dreamed of art as a child, he could not have imagined becoming a cultural icon with his unique, collage-style paintings.
On August 28, 1963 over 250,000 people gathered in Washington D.C. for the March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, advocating for racial equality and harmony; award-winning author Shane W. Evans captures the power and inspiration of that historic day in simple yet moving words and illustrations.
Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag Hardcover by Rob Sanders
The Gay Pride Flag was created in 1978 by Harvey Milk and Gilbert Baker as a symbol of the LGBTQ community. From its journey in San Francisco to becoming an international emblem of love, hope, and pride, this story is movingly told through the evocative words of Rob Sanders and illustrations of Steven Salerno.
I Am Jazz Hardcover by Jessica Herthel
Jazz Jennings knew from a very young age that she was a transgender girl, loving pink and mermaids. She shares her real-life story of transitioning as a child and gaining family support in a simple, honest way. This story connects with young readers who are exploring gender identity.
Sulwe Hardcover by Lupita Nyong’o
Sulwe, a young girl with very dark skin who wishes to be lighter like her family, takes a magical nighttime journey that opens her eyes to see and appreciate her own unique beauty, in this whimsical and uplifting picture book debut from actress Lupita Nyong’o.
Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer
When her class has a Mother’s Day celebration, Stella feels left out, having two dads instead of a mom. She comes up with an inclusive solution by inviting all the special people in her life who love and care for her. This is a heartwarming story about family, acceptance, and the real meaning of love.
Red: A Crayon’s Story by Michael Hall
Red is labeled as red, but feels he is actually blue inside; and though his teacher, mother, and scissors try helping him conform, he remains miserable trying to be something he is not, until he is finally accepted as his true blue self.
The Ever-Lengthening List:
What Stories Are Our Children Missing Out On?
This Banned Books Week, let’s come together to uphold free expression and access to diverse literature. Our kids deserve mirrors and windows into our beautifully diverse world. Defending the freedom to read opens minds and changes lives.
Organizations like PEN America also fight to defend free expression, support persecuted writers, and promote literary culture. You can learn more about their mission here.
Let’s keep turning pages and opening hearts, one story at a time. What banned book will you rediscover today?
When you purchase through my links, you also help support the Book Buddy mission to fund home libraries for children in need. By shopping these titles, we can promote literacy and spread the joy of reading.
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