Banned or Challenged Books

Censored & Banned Literature examines the wide range of important literary texts that have been subjected to censorship, either at the time of their first publication, later in their history, or both.

Few books have caused as big a stir as John Steinbeck'sThe Grapes of Wrath, when it was published in April 1939. By May, it was the nation's number one bestseller, but in Kern County, California--the Joads' newfound home--the book was burned publicly and banned from library shelves.Obscene in the Extreme tells the remarkable story behind this fit of censorship.

Learning about a wide range of information and perspectives through access to books is generally considered an inherent characteristic of the educational system. However, debates around banning books suggest that there are potential downsides to giving young people access to certain literature, particularly books with violent or sexual content.

The first comprehensive history of the Catholic Church's notorious Index, with resonance for ongoing debates over banned books, censorship, and free speech.

Censorship has been an ongoing phenomenon even in "the land of the free." This examination of banned books across U.S. history examines the motivations and effects of censorship, shows us how our view of right and wrong has evolved over the years, and helps readers to understand the tremendous importance of books and films in our society.