The Craziest Banned Books You Should Read

Whether it was a scandalous, vivid depiction of sex or a culture-shattering story, people found all sorts of reasons to ban books over the years. Many of these books, however, turn out to be some of the best and most popular books ever. Even in recent years, despite of having a more progressive world, a lot of great books are still being banned. But that shouldn’t stop us from having an open mind, and learning about what these authors have to say, right? So in honor of Banned Books Week (September 22-28), check out the craziest banned books you should read.

The Complete Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm (Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, 1812)

If you thought fairy tales were all about happy endings, then you are in for a big surprise with the Brothers Grimm’s dark and violent (and sometimes realistic) take on them. I guess this is one fairy tale book that won’t be reaching the hands of grade-schoolers, huh?

Ulysses (James Joyce, 1922)

Considered to be one of the most important works of Modernist literature. Since it’s publication, the novel has attracted controversy and criticism because of its obscenity. It was banned in countries such as Ireland, Canada, the United States, and England.

Thirteen Reasons Why (Jay Asher, 2007)

This novel tackles sex, drugs, rape, suicide, and bullying among other things. But it was only after the release of the 2017 Netflix series that it was banned from several school districts, as it was said to “glamorize” suicide. It may be quite a depressing read, but it is also very enticing and real.

The Satanic Verses (Salman Rushdie, 1988)

The scandalous name of this book already warrants some kind of preconceived notion of its plot. It focuses on two Indian Muslims living in England and gives readers a touch of magical realism. It was banned in countries like Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Malaysia, and many more for its “blasphemous references”.

1984 (George Orwell, 1949)

One of the greatest dystopian novels ever, 1984 was banned due to its portrayal of oppressive regimes and censorship. Ironically, it triggered the likes of Stalin and China. Orwell is also responsible for another controversial banned book – Animal Farm.

Harry Potter Series (J.K. Rowling, 1997)

When the world fell in love with J.K. Rowling’s fascinating and magical world of Harry Potter, I don’t think they expected people to ban it for using “actual curses and spells” and “conjuring evil spirits”.

To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee, 1960)

Still very relevant today, this novel tackles racism when the black lead character is falsely accused of raping a white woman. With the N-word appearing over 50 times in the novel, several schools removed it from their curriculum for its “dated approach to race”.