Dec. 9, 2025
By Kapri Del Regno
Staff Writer
This piece is a companion to NJ law defending librarians and students’ right to read takes effect today, which The Lighthouse also published today.
Based on confidential reports filed by library professionals and community members, the American Library Association listed these books as the most frequently challenged in 2024. Many book challenges are not reported, so the organization notes that its data only provides a snapshot of censorship attempts.
“All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson (2020)
In a series of personal essays, George M. Johnson reflects on the adversity they encountered growing up as a Black queer youth in New Jersey and Virginia in the 1990s and early 2000s. Through heartbreaking and powerful anecdotes, Johnson recounts the bullying they faced, their family history and the coming out process.
“Gender Queer: A Memoir” by Maia Kobabe (2019)
In this graphic memoir, Maia Kobabe — who uses e/em/eir pronouns — explores eir experiences as a nonbinary and bisexual person. Through eir reflections on societal expectations and misunderstandings, e gains confidence in eir identity.
(Tie) “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison (1970)
“The Bluest Eye” centers on Pecola Breedlove, an 11-year-old Black female in 1940s Ohio. Having endured poverty, abuse and racism, her longing for blue eyes — which she perceives as symbols of beauty and whiteness — begins to destroy her.
(Tie) “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky (1999)
Through a series of letters, this novel follows high school freshman Charlie Kelmeckis, whose life changes after meeting two seniors who push him out of his comfort zone by exposing him to alcohol, drugs and a new sense of self.
“Tricks” by Ellen Hopkins (2009)
“Tricks” follows five teenagers whose vulnerability draws them into situations involving addiction and exploitation through sex work. Although each character faces profound hurt and uncertainty, the novel shows that healing is possible.
COVERS COMPILED BY KAPRI DEL REGNO
Click here to learn about the Freedom to Read Act, a new law in New Jersey aimed at preventing censorship in public schools and libraries.
