Wunderland News

It’s Banned Books Week! This week is special as it invites the entire book community to have important conversations about censorship in libraries and schools and our freedom to read. Each year, Banned Books Week highlights the vital role that books play in promoting diverse perspectives and fostering critical thinking. We believe children deserve the opportunity to learn from diverse voices and different worlds, which is why we will never self-censor our books. Children deserve the chance to see themselves reflected in the books they read. By banning books, our society restricts access to information and ideas, undermining intellectual freedom and the right to access a range of viewpoints. Literature often challenges societal norms and encourages important conversations about complex issues. By keeping books accessible in our bookstore, we honor the principles of free expression and ensure that children can engage with a broad spectrum of ideas and experiences.

In honor of Banned Book Week, here are a couple of titles from our bookstore that have been challenged. Let us celebrate the resilience of literature that continues to help inspire children and ignite their imagination.

“New Kid” by Jerry Craft

This compelling graphic novel follows the journey of Jordan Banks, a 12-year-old African American boy who dreams of attending art school but was instead forced by his family to enroll in a prestigious private school. The story delves into Jordan's experiences as he navigates the challenges of fitting in at a predominantly white institution while staying true to his identity and passions. Through vibrant illustrations and a keen sense of humor, Craft addresses important themes such as racial and economic disparities, the struggle for self-acceptance, and the power of friendship. This insightful and thought-provoking book resonates with readers of all ages, making it a standout in contemporary middle-grade literature.

"New Kid" has faced challenges and bans in some schools and libraries primarily due to its exploration of themes related to race, racism, and social justice. Some parents and community members have raised concerns about the book's portrayal of racial issues, feeling that it may be inappropriate for younger readers or that it could promote divisive viewpoints. Additionally, there have been objections to the book's depiction of racial stereotypes, which some critics argue could be unsettling or controversial. Despite these challenges, "New Kid" is widely praised for its honest and nuanced representation of the experiences of young African American students in predominantly white environments, making it an important and valuable read for fostering empathy and understanding.

“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas

This powerful novel centers around Starr, a 16-year-old African American girl who witnesses the fatal police shooting of her best friend, Khalil. The story explores Starr's journey as she grapples with the trauma of the incident, the pressures of speaking out, and the complexities of her identity as she navigates her predominantly white prep school. Through Starr's eyes, Thomas tackles critical issues such as systemic racism, police brutality, and social justice, offering a raw and unflinching look at the impact of these realities on individuals and communities. This compelling narrative is both a call to action and a testament to the power of finding one's voice amidst adversity.

This novel holds incredible value due to its lived experiences of young people, however, it has been banned and challenged by certain states due to profanity, violence, and perceived “anti-police” messaging. According to PEN America, “The Hate U Give” has several subjects that are amongst the most banned. For example, of the 5,894 books that were banned between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2023, 37% of titles had characters of color or themes of racism.

Overall, celebrating Banned Books Week is a powerful affirmation of our commitment to intellectual freedom and the exploration of diverse perspectives. This week highlights the importance of protecting our right to read and engage with challenging ideas. By honoring these works, we not only resist censorship but also encourage a culture of open dialogue and curiosity. In a world where knowledge is power, celebrating banned books is an act of empowerment, reminding us of the value of free expression and the transformative power of books for our children.