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Why are picture books banned

Unfortunately, picture books are often banned. The American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) compiles lists of the top ten most frequently challenged books to inform the public about censorship in libraries and schools. In 2018, the OIF received 351 reports of challenges to library, school, and university materials and services. Of these, 46% were due to “sexually explicit” content, and 24% were due to “offensive language.”

Banned Picture Books

Julián and his abuela are going to a wedding. Better yet, Julián is in the wedding. Weddings have flowers and kissing and dancing and cake. And this wedding also has a new friend named Marisol. It’s not long before Julián and Marisol set off for some magic and mischief of their own, and when things take an unexpected turn, the pair learns that everything is easier with a good friend by your side. Jessica Love returns with a joyful story of friendship and individuality in this radiant follow-up to Julián Is a Mermaid. (publisher’s description)

Red has a bright red label, but he is, in fact, blue. His teacher tries to help him be red (let’s draw strawberries!), his mother tries to help him be red by sending him out on a playdate with a yellow classmate (go draw a nice orange!), and the scissors try to help him be red by snipping his label so that he has room to breathe. But Red is miserable. He just can’t be red, no matter how hard he tries! (publisher’s description)

Developed by experts in the fields of early childhood and activism against injustice, this topic-driven board book offers clear, concrete language and beautiful imagery that young children can grasp and adults can leverage for further discussion. (publisher’s description)

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