Queer Books Top Annual List of Most Censored

Books with LGBTQ+ themes remain among the most frequently censored titles in American libraries, according to the American Library Association’s (ALA) latest annual report.

Each year, the ALA releases its Top 10 Most Challenged Books list to raise awareness about censorship in schools and libraries across the United States. The list is compiled from confidential reports submitted by librarians and community members, along with media coverage from around the country.

“The most common justifications for censorship provided by complainants were false claims of illegal obscenity for minors; inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters or themes; and covering topics of race, racism, equity, and social justice,” said the ALA.

Queer Books Lead the List

At least five of the top ten most challenged books feature LGBTQ+ themes — including the top two titles. The works singled out include:

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson
In a series of personal essays, prominent journalist and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson reflects on their childhood, adolescence, and college years in New Jersey and Virginia.

Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe
Kobabe’s graphic memoir details a journey of self-identity, including adolescent crushes, coming out, connecting over gay fanfiction, and grappling with medical trauma.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
This coming-of-age novel follows Charlie, a shy and introspective high school freshman, as he navigates teenage life and copes with the suicide of his best friend.

Tricks by Ellen Hopkins
A young adult verse novel telling the intersecting stories of five troubled teenagers from diverse backgrounds.

Flamer by Mike Curato
An award-winning graphic novel centred on Aiden Navarro, a teenager confronting bullying, desire, friendship, and self-acceptance during a summer at camp.

An Alarming Trend

The 2024 data reveals a shift in the source of censorship attempts. The majority now come from pressure groups and government officials rather than individual parents or concerned citizens. Elected officials, board members, and administrators initiated 72% of book challenges, compared to just 16% by parents and 5% by library users.

The ALA has tracked a dramatic rise in book challenges since 2021. In 2024, it recorded the third-highest number of censorship attempts since monitoring began in 1990 — although the total marked a decrease from the record-breaking 1,247 challenges reported in 2023.