The recent controversy in the United States around year eight students reading Maus caused such a flurry of interest publishers ran out of stock for several months (it’s finally back in stock now).

It has gotten us thinking about other titles that have been challenged for one reason or another. Here we present a collection of some of our children’s and young adult favourites that have a history of being challenged or banned in school libraries across America.

Drama by Raina Telgemeier

Why was it challenged:

This popular graphic novel has been challenged numerous times because it has two gay characters who have a very chaste kiss at one point in the narrative.

Why it should be read:

Read it for the fun depiction of life backstage during rehearsals for the school play and its warm, inclusive depictions of friendship and the tentative beginnings of romantic feelings.

Suitable for readers aged 10 and up.

This One Summer by Mariko & Jillian Tamaki

Why it was challenged:

Winner of the Caldecott Medal in 2014, this book received an unprecendented level of attention due to its LGBTQI+ themes, use of profanity and references to sex. Unfortunately, many people assumed it was for younger readers, rather than teens.

Why it should be read:

This is a gorgeous, coming of age story that focuses on the importance of friendship when your world is rapidly changing. The art is phenomenal.

Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Melinda Lo

Why it was challenged:

Despite winning numerous awards, this book centering a lesbian protagonist and featuring a bi-racial romance in San Francisco in the 1950s during the height of anti-communist sentiment has been challenged for these very same themes.

Why it should be read:

It’s an award-winning, beautifully written novel that explores repression in many forms and was a book the author felt particularly compelled to write during Trump’s presidency.

Suitable for readers aged 14 and up.

The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas

Why it was challenged:

A very popular, award-winning book focused on the black experience in the U.S, the book is regularly challenged for its use of profanity and a suggested anti-police message.

Why it should be read:

To gain an insight into the Black Lives Matter movement. The voice of the main character, Starr, shows authentically what its like to have to fight for justice when you are black.

Suitable for readers aged 14 and up.