I’d previously pointed out that this week is the ALA’s annual Banned Book Week where you to can stick it to censors by reading books they feel would be better left unread or perhaps burnt to a cinder.
There’s so many books to choose from, you may wonder where to start, so I’d suggest checking out the ALA’s list of most challenged books that goes back over a decade.
You’re sure to find a book that tickles your fancy in a way that a censor finds most improper.
I’ve generally started with some of the books that seem to have been on school reading lists, but, for whatever reason, weren’t assigned books in my classes. So in past years, that’s led to me checking out The Grapes of Wrath, Catcher in the Rye, and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, (the book I read for last year’s week).
This year, I’ve been reading several memoirs and oral histories in general, so Beyond Magenta felt like a natural choice. I think one censor spontaneously combusted at the mere thought of it. This makes me happy.
Remember, you don’t need to worry about finishing a chosen banned book this week, but it’s a great week to start reading.