Banned Books That are Too Depressing, Too Political, and Just Too Much {banned book week}

Today, we are all about the books that are Too Much of this or that and therefore causing problems for some people.  These eight books were all banned b/c they are too depressing, too political, too feminist, too thorough with their topic, or too much of something.   

Now, b/c people or groups go to a public, school, or special library to get the books banned from the shelves.  98% of books that attempt to be banned don't even make it to the official "Banned Books List."  When I was an elementary school librarian I had at least one parent a year come into the library trying to get me to ban a book from that library, but I was always able to talk with the parent about the importance of knowing what your child is reading, but leaving the book available for other kids who have parents that feel differently.  

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. 

I've posted about this ban before, here, but basically this well loved children's book was banned b/c of a case of mistaken identity.  Basically, another Bill Martin, not related to our author, wrote a book about Marxism.  Therefore, this book was banned.  Makes sense, right? 

The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank

This powerful and educational book was banned b/c it was too depressing.  

Go Ask Alice by Anonymous

Go Ask Alice is a powerful book about the horrible side of drugs and how it can lead you places you never dreamed such as homelessness, prostitution, dealing, etc.  It's a quick read that I think at least high school kids should read.  This book, all about the use of drugs, was banned b/c there was too much drug use in it.    

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

This classic book set during the depression, known for being a depressing time,  was banned b/c it was too depressing.  Plus, those that wished a book set during the depression was happier didn't like the language in this book.

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss

This fun rhyming book was banned in China b/c it depicts early Marxism.  I'm pretty sure Marxism is what most people get out of this book. ;)  

Little Women by Louisa M. Alcott

A story about sisterhood and friendship was banned b/c it's too feminist. 

Webster's Dictionary, 10th edition

This dictionary was banned b/c certain words were defined.  Yes, it was banned for defining words.  Ridiculous for a dictionary to do such.

1984 by George Orwell

This often read high school English book was banned b/c it was thought to be pro-communist.  However, if those that complained about this book had ever read it they would've known this book is anti-government. 

To be honest, I think books that have been banned are often misunderstood.  How many of these book trouble makers have you read? 

Happy Banned Book aka Trouble Maker Reading!