Top 15 Banned Books in U.S. Schools

The landscape of banned literature in U.S. schools continues to evolve as new reports reveal significant numbers of book bans across the country. During the 2024-25 school year, over 6,800 books were banned in 87 public school districts across 23 states. This alarming trend underscores a growing trend of censorship similar to historical periods of suppression, including McCarthyism.

Overview of Book Bans in U.S. Schools

A report from PEN America highlights a significant crackdown on literature, with 3,752 unique titles impacted by bans. Many of these books address complex themes, including LGBTQ+ issues and social justice. The data also indicates that 80% of these bans originated in just three states: Florida, Texas, and Tennessee.

Kasey Meehan, director of PEN America’s Freedom to Read program, commented on the escalation of censorship. She noted an unsettling trend of “everyday banning,” which has proliferated over the past few years.

Most Banned Titles and Authors

The following list outlines the top 15 most banned books in U.S. schools during the 2024-25 academic year:

• A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess – Banned in 23 districts
• Breathless by Jennifer Niven – Banned in 20 districts
• Sold by Patricia McCormick – Banned in 20 districts
• Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo – Banned in 19 districts
• A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas – Banned in 18 districts
• Crank by Ellen Hopkins – Banned in 17 districts
• Forever… by Judy Blume – Banned in 17 districts
• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky – Banned in 17 districts
• Wicked by Gregory Maguire – Banned in 17 districts
• All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson – Banned in 16 districts
• A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas – Banned in 16 districts
• Damsel by Elana K. Arnold – Banned in 15 districts
• The DUFF by Kody Keplinger – Banned in 14 districts
• Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult – Banned in 13 districts
• Storm and Fury by Jennifer L. Armentrout – Banned in 12 districts

Impact of Censorship on Literature

The trend of banning books raises significant concerns about intellectual freedom and the first amendment rights of readers and writers. Data from PEN America shows that the total number of book bans has exceeded 22,810 since July 2021 across 45 states. This highlights an ongoing battle for access to diverse literature in educational settings.

As previously banned titles remain off shelves, the fear of censorship influences decisions about which books are made available in schools. Critics argue this “obeying in advance” culture undermines educational growth and the exploration of important societal topics.

The current environment raises critical questions about the future of literature in schools and the role of educational institutions in fostering or restricting access to diverse voices. The ongoing pattern of censorship will continue to be a focal point as advocates work to protect the rights to read and learn.