This week marks Banned Books Week, which celebrates everyone’s right to read. This year’s theme stresses the importance of the First Amendment and our right to read in the ongoing battle against censorship. As we reviewed lists of the top challenged books throughout the years, we asked our staff to talk about their favorite banned books, and the importance of literacy and access to books in their lives.
David Rothenberg, Analytics Manager
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
Why was this book banned?
It was banned for strong language and adult themes.
Why do you love this book?
It’s representative of high schoolers’ trials and tribulations, and it’s full of important insights for life.
What is your favorite quote from this book?
“I just can’t believe that life would give us to each other,’ he said, ‘and then take it back.’
‘I can,’ she said. ‘Life’s a bastard.”
Why is literacy and access to books important to you?
Books are our window to the world. They are one of the only ways we can experience history and the lives of others without having been there to see it for ourselves.
Read about our other staff picks:
Emily – To Kill a Mockingbird
Gohar – The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Katie – Siddhartha
Matt – The Great Gatsby