Nonfiction Book Bans Are on the Rise. These are the 29 Most-Banned Books Nationwide, from Books on Insects to Amelia Earhart

A new report released by PEN America has revealed a concerning trend regarding the censorship of educational materials in public schools across the United States. Published on May 7, 2023, the “Facts & Fiction: Stories Stripped Away By Book Bans” report highlights a dramatic increase in the banning of nonfiction books in schools, with 29% of the total titles removed during the 2024-2025 academic year classified as nonfiction. This marks a notable rise from the 14% recorded in the previous year.

The report documents the removal of 3,743 unique titles from public school libraries, prompting PEN America, a nonprofit organisation committed to promoting free speech and artistic expression, to sound an alarm about the implications of such trends. According to the organisation, nonfiction books typically encompass a range of topics including personal narratives, historical accounts, and educational content. The report emphasises that exposure to these types of books is crucial for developing critical thinking skills in students, skills which are particularly vital in an age rife with misinformation spread through social media and other digital platforms.

Among the nonfiction titles recently banned is ‘Ancient Greek Art and Architecture’ by Don Nardo, which provides insights into the evolution of art and architecture in ancient Greece. Another notable title is ‘Boy v. Girl?: How Gender Shapes Who We Are, What We Want, and How We Get Along’ authored by George Abrahams and Sheila Ahlbrand, which explores the impact of gender on various aspects of life, including education and societal expectations.

The report also highlights memoirs, such as ‘Invisible Man, Got the Whole World Watching: A Young Black Man’s Education’ by Mychal Denzel Smith. This work examines the experiences of Black men in contemporary America and addresses crucial themes like masculinity and mental health. Additionally, Shane Burcaw’s memoir ‘Laughing at My Nightmare’ provides a personal account of living with spinal muscular atrophy, showcasing the diversity of experiences that nonfiction literature can bring forth.

Other books banned focus on societal issues and activism, including ‘Male Privilege’ by Duchess Harris and Heidi Deal, which navigates the complex discussions surrounding male privilege and offers insights on combating sexism. These books aim to encourage critical conversation about contemporary social issues, a goal seemingly at odds with the motivations behind their censorship.

Moreover, the report outlines a range of children’s books that have also faced restrictions, such as ‘J is for Justice! An Activism Alphabet’ by Veronica I. Arreola, designed to inspire young activists. Works like ‘If You’re a Kid Like Gavin: The True Story of a Young Trans Activist’ by Gavin Grimm provide essential narratives regarding representation and identity in literature, critical for shaping inclusive perspectives among young readers.

The report’s findings align with broader trends observed in recent years, where there has been a significant surge in book bans targeted predominantly at works authored by BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals. This backdrop raises concerns not only about the preservation of diverse voices in educational settings but also about the potential implications for students’ understanding of complex social themes.

PEN America has underscored that the increasing censorship of educational materials not only limits access to important knowledge but also stifles the development of informed, critical, and empathetic individuals. The organisation’s findings call for a collective reevaluation of the practices surrounding book bans in schools, stressing the need for educators and policymakers to safeguard students’ access to a wide body of knowledge.

As debates on educational content continue to escalate, the PEN America report serves as a critical reminder of the importance of maintaining a diverse and inclusive curriculum. Emphasising the role of nonfiction literature in shaping both the personal and collective consciousness of students, the report advocates for the protection of free expression in educational settings, underscoring its necessity in fostering informed and engaged future generations.