Banned Books Week 2025

08 Oct Banned Books Week 2025

This week is Banned Books Week, where we celebrate your freedom to read. Discover for yourself why so many critically acclaimed and beloved titles are banned or challenged with these books that are worth a first, or even second, read.

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

by Jesse Andrews

High school sucks, and Greg Gaines swears there must be a fungus eating his brain. Earl Jackson, who is generally filled with violent rage, happens to be the only person Greg feels is even remotely his friend. The two of them spend their time making mediocre movies—until Greg’s senior year, when his mother guilts him into reconnecting with his childhood friend Rachel, who happens to be dying.

The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas

Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter navigates life between her impoverished neighborhood and an affluent prep school—a balance disrupted when she witnesses the police shooting of her unarmed best friend, Khalil. His death ignites national headlines, with conflicting narratives emerging about his character, leading to protests and intimidation from both law enforcement and local criminals. As the only witness to the incident, Starr faces the perilous decision of whether to speak out, knowing it could impact both her community and her safety.

Crank

by Ellen Hopkins

Written in sharp verse, Crank chronicles the downward spiral of Kristina Snow. Introduced to crank while visiting her largely absentee father, Kristina discovers her outgoing, risk-taking alter ego: Bree. Bree can do all the things Kristina could never imagine doing—including attracting dangerous boys—as long as the crank keeps flowing.

All American Boys

by Jason Reynolds

Rashad’s story begins when a woman trips over him, leading to a violent encounter with police who mistakenly believe he is stealing, based solely on his appearance as a Black teenager. Quinn, a white bystander and the brother of Rashad’s best friend, witnesses the incident but initially remains silent, grappling with his understanding of racism and police brutality as the nation reacts. Both Rashad and Quinn confront the harsh reality that prejudice persists, realizing they must take a stand to prevent further injustices and help shape a better future.

The Giver

by Lois Lowry

Life in the community is perfect. Everyone has a place, everyone has a purpose, and everything is planned. The community is precise and orderly, and everyone is the same—except for Jonas. When the children reach the age of twelve, they participate in the Ceremony of Twelve and receive their life assignments. But Jonas is chosen for a special assignment: he is to be trained by a mysterious old man known only as the Giver.

– written by Alex B., Teen Central Library Assistant