8 children’s books that caused controversy
From the start of literature, novels have been banned consistently. These children’s and young adult’s novels are some of the most frequently objected to novels in recent history.
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret
This book was often objected to for its themes of puberty and early sexuality, but acts as a realistic view on what it’s like to be a young girl in the midst of growing up.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
This book has been constantly banned for its use of the “N”-word, but shows that racism can be overcome.
The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games has been objected to by parents for its extremely violent themes, but the collection has since been turned into a successful series of movies and is a pop culture phenomenon in its own right.
To Kill A Mockingbird
Similar to Huckleberry Finn, To Kill A Mockingbird examines themes of racism and includes some particularly violent scenes, but in the end is an anti-racism petition for justice as seen through the eyes of children.
Twilight
This book is one full of violence and sexuality, but, given its vampire-horror genre, is relatively tame. That said, unlike most of the other novels on this list, anyone would be lying to say it is a literary tour-de-force.
The Catcher In The Rye
Famous for having inspired John Lennon’s assassin, this book is an adventure through early adolescence. Despite its use of swearing and sexual themes, it has become a classic globally.
The Grapes of Wrath
A gritty, realistic novel written about the Great Depression, this novel includes drinking, sex, and violence and swearing, none of which has stopped it from becoming an American classic.
Lord of the Flies
This dystopian novel, depicting a group of British boys stranded on an island contains violence, but teaches the reader about human nature and the common good.