Books allow kids to explore the world, understand complex emotions, and learn from others’ experiences. When children read, they’re exposed to diverse perspectives, which helps them build empathy and critical thinking skills. However, many kids are losing access to these valuable secondhand experiences with recent book bans. Imagine learning about friendship, loss, or resilience only through your own life — it’s limiting and, frankly, unrealistic. Books offer a window into the lives of others, helping children prepare for challenges they may not yet face. Without these stories, kids miss crucial lessons about themselves and the world. It’s time to recognize that reading widely is essential to a well-rounded education.
Book bans are on the rise across the U.S. and Canada and the impact is serious. In both countries, books that highlight diverse identities — particularly those featuring LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC stories — are increasingly targeted. When these books are pulled from shelves, kids lose crucial chances to learn about others and themselves. Author Robin Stevenson, whose picture books celebrate LGBTQ+ pride, points out that banning these stories doesn’t protect children: it isolates them. Limiting access to diverse stories sends a harmful message that some lives and experiences don’t belong, reducing kids’ chances to build empathy and see beyond their own worlds.
Book Censorship Soars to 92% in One Year
Recent American Library Association data shows a sharp 92% increase in censorship attempts across public libraries just from 2022-2023. Texas saw over 500 books pulled in one school year alone, followed by hundreds more in states like Florida and Pennsylvania. Many of these books center on LGBTQIA+ or BIPOC characters, making it clear this trend isn’t random. These bans cut kids from learning about people different from themselves and shrink their view of the world. Limiting access to diverse voices impacts libraries and publishers, who may hesitate to print underrepresented stories, according to author Fin Leary. Ultimately, kids are left without the range of perspectives that help them grow.
Erasing Stories Provides Risky Security for Vulnerable Kids
Banning books hits hardest for kids who see themselves in these stories. It denies them a safe space to explore identity, empathy, and understanding, even through this secondhand experience. When books with LGBTQIA+ or BIPOC characters are banned, it signals to children that these identities are unwelcome. Kids who don’t see their own experiences in books can only begin to learn to question their worth. Studies show that 29% of trans youth in the U.S. have attempted suicide, often due to seclusion and systemic discrimination. For these kids, stories about characters like them can be a lifeline. For many queer and trans youth, representation in stories provides role models and a sense of belonging. Taking these stories away denies them that connection and can worsen feelings of erasure and self-doubt.
It’s up to us to stand against book bans. Every kid deserves stories that reflect their experiences and expand their world. Speaking out can help protect their right to read, learn, and grow. Let’s keep libraries and schools full of diverse voices. Use your voice — support access to books that show every kid they belong.
Want to see a recently banned children’s book about diversity and inclusion? Check out this article.
Be sure to browse our Banned Books: Because We Stand With the Well-Informed bookshelf on Bookshop.org for banned book recommendations!
