Possibilities of Young Adult Literature: Opportunities and Challenges of Critical Literacy Amidst Book Banning

ABSTRACT This article examines the recent increase of book bannings and challenged books and their possible effects on marginalized youth, including students who are Black, Indigenous, people of color, and/or identify as LGBTQIA+. Arguing against these reading restrictions, this article breaks down the normative ideologies inherently promoted through book bannings and challenged books. Through a critical content analysis of the top five challenged young adult books of 2023, I share possibilities for how secondary teachers can use these books in their classrooms to support critical literacy instruction and illustrate why critical literacy is necessary for all stakeholders in education. This study aims to provide practical guidance for English language arts teachers and librarians on how to incorporate challenged books into their teaching to strengthen students' critical consciousness and to support a more equitable education and future for all students.