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For as long as books have existed, there have been attempts to challenge and censor them. But, far from being confined to the past, book bans are currently on the rise: in the UK and US, school librarians have reported a sharp uptick in individuals and organisations demanding the removal of certain titles from their shelves. Overwhelmingly, the targeted books deal with themes of race, empire, and LGBTQIA+ issues. The stories they represent can offer a lifeline for marginalised readers, as well as important diverse perspectives for readers of all backgrounds.
To mark Banned Books Week, which runs 5th-11th October this year, we’re highlighting just a few of the many books that have faced bans past and present. |
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 | Four brilliant banned books |  | | | | | |
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All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson
This powerful memoir-manifesto about LGBTQIA+ experiences was cited as the most challenged book in the US last year, according to Banned Books Week. |
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All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson This powerful memoir-manifesto about LGBTQIA+ experiences was cited as the most challenged book in the US last year, according to Banned Books Week. |
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Lady Chatterley's Lover by D.H. Lawrence
The subject of a landmark obscenity trial in 1960, D.H. Lawrence's novel faced censorship due to its supposedly shocking use of explicit language and depictions of sex. |
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Lady Chatterley's Lover by D.H. Lawrence The subject of a landmark obscenity trial in 1960, D.H. Lawrence's novel faced censorship due to its supposedly shocking use of explicit language and depictions of sex. |
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Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
Marjane Satrapi's graphic novel about growing up during Iran's Islamic revolution was banned in Iran and has faced multiple challenges in the US since 2013. Its film adaptation was also banned in Lebanon. |
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Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi Since 1987, all of Ma Jian's books, including this biting satire of totalitarianism, have been banned in China due to his outspoken criticism of the country's government. |
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| China Dream by Ma Jian
Since 1987, all of Ma Jian's books, including this biting satire of totalitarianism, have been banned in China due to his outspoken criticism of the country's government. |
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China Dream by Ma Jian Marjane Satrapi's graphic novel about growing up during Iran's Islamic revolution was banned in Iran and has faced multiple challenges in the US since 2013. Its film adaptation was also banned in Lebanon. |
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Revered for his unique worldbuilding, compulsively addictive stories, and wry, zany sense of humour, Thomas Pynchon is considered one of the greats of postmodern American literature.
With the release of Shadow Ticket, his first novel in 12 years, we've created an essential guide to Pynchon's books. |
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Remembering Jilly Cooper, 1937-2025 In memory of Dame Jilly Cooper, DBE, who sadly passed away on Sunday 5th October 2025, we look back on the beloved author's distinguished career and enduring legacy. |
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