The library is a safe space for all stories and ideas! We are a book sanctuary, a place that protects the freedom to read. But for as long as there have been books, people have been trying to control what others read. You could build a tower with the books that were banned or censored at some point in North America alone.
In fact, that's what artist Kelly McCray did! Visit the Toronto Reference Library to see the Tower of Banned Books, a sculptural work using over 400 books. Book challenges are increasing at school and public libraries in North America. There were more censorship attempts in 2022 than in the last 20 years!
For this Reading Challenge category, exercise your freedom to read. Intellectual freedom is important. Everybody has the right to seek information from different points of view. Our Book Sanctuary Collection helps bring attention to banned and challenged books. Here are some stories that are part of that collection. Why do you think these books were challenged?
And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell and Henry Cole
A picture book based on a true story. Meet Roy and Silo, two male penguins at the Central Park Zoo who raised a chick together.
Blubber by Judy Blume
Jill joins other kids in bullying a classmate, but soon learns who her real friends are.
The Great Bear by David Robertson
After their adventures in The Barren Grounds, Morgan and Eli go through the magic portal again – but earlier in time! When they return to Misewa, they meet younger versions of their friends.
The Librarian of Basra by Jeanette Winter
Alia Muhammad Baker was a brave librarian who saved 30,000 books from war and destruction.
New Kid by Jerry Craft
Jordan is nervous about fitting in at his new school, where he's one of the few Black students.
Since our website isn't working normally right now, we've only included the ebook links for these recommendations. You can still check at your local library to see if you can find a print copy!
Did you complete the 2023 Reading Challenge? High five! Let a grown-up know if you want to receive a certificate, enter the prize draw, or both. You need to have a library card and to fill out this form. We're giving everyone extra time to finish the challenge and enter the contest, so the new deadline is April 1, 2024!