Ban This Book

Fourth-grader Amy Anne Ollinger discovers her favorite book has been banned from her school library by the PTA president. She responds by creating a secret banned books library in her locker, letting other students read the prohibited titles. The story follows Amy Anne's growing activism as she stands up against censorship in her North Carolina school. Her actions lead to consequences that affect both students and staff, forcing her to consider the true meaning of freedom to read. Amy Anne's campaign attracts unlikely allies, including the son of the PTA president who initiated the book bans. The narrative incorporates real banned books and features a cameo appearance by children's author Dav Pilkey. The novel explores themes of intellectual freedom, personal courage, and the impact of censorship on young minds. It presents complex issues about reading rights and parent oversight in a format accessible to middle-grade readers.

Readers praise the book's message about intellectual freedom and student activism. Parents and teachers note it helps start conversations about censorship and standing up for beliefs. Young readers connect with protagonist Amy Anne's growth from shy to confident. Readers highlight: - Realistic portrayal of school dynamics - Diverse background characters - Clear explanations of First Amendment rights - References to many banned children's books Common criticisms: - Some found the resolution too neat and simplified - A few parents felt it encouraged children to be defiant - Several noted the premise requires suspension of disbelief Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (380+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 "Perfect for teaching civil disobedience and the power of speaking up," wrote one teacher reviewer. A parent noted: "Made my daughter want to read all the banned books mentioned." Several reviewers called it "heavy-handed" in its messaging.

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🔍 Book challenges and bans are reported in all 50 U.S. states, with over 1,200 challenges recorded in 2022 alone. 📚 Author Alan Gratz has written over 17 historical fiction and contemporary novels for young readers, including the bestseller "Refugee." 📖 Many real banned books are mentioned throughout the story, including "Bridge to Terabithia" and "The Giver," both frequently challenged titles in American schools. 🏫 The story's setting in North Carolina reflects Gratz's personal connection to the state, where he taught middle school English before becoming a full-time writer. 🎯 The protagonist's locker library grows to include 73 banned books, each one carefully selected to represent actual books that have faced censorship in U.S. schools and libraries.