2024 has been a year full of events in the US, with the re-election of former president, Donald J Trump. Among literature lovers, a hot topic of discussion has been the impact this political development will have on America’s book banning culture. In the fall of 2023 alone, there were 4,349 recorded book bans in the country, as reported by PEN America.
Popular and critically acclaimed books like ‘The Kite Runner’ by Khaled Hosseini and ‘The Handmaid’s Tail’ by Margaret Atwood have been banned in various school districts and libraries. The reasons behind these bans often revolve around the portrayal of sexual violence, the role of women, and religious viewpoints. This has sparked controversy and public criticism, with many arguing that banning these books erases the voices and experiences of minority groups and deprives students of the opportunity to learn about important societal issues firsthand.
While some believe that banning books is regressive and counterproductive, others, including ‘The Handmaid’s Tail’ author Margaret Atwood, suggest that it doesn’t stop people from reading the banned books if they are determined to do so. Despite the backlash, Biden’s administration has faced for the high number of book bans and their impact on marginalized communities, efforts to address the crisis have been largely ineffective.
Looking ahead, Trump’s plans to defund the Department of Education and eliminate the teaching of critical race theory have raised concerns that book bans will continue and possibly intensify. This fear is reflected in the surge in sales of dystopian books following Trump’s electoral victory, with titles like ‘Democracy in Retrograde’ by Sami Sage and Emily Amick experiencing a 30,000% increase in sales in just one day.
The ongoing book banning crisis in the US highlights the importance of protecting intellectual freedom and promoting diversity in literature. As the debate continues, it remains crucial for policymakers, educators, and the public to engage in constructive dialogue and find solutions that uphold the principles of free speech and inclusivity in education. Only through open communication and a commitment to understanding different perspectives can we navigate the complex landscape of book banning in America.