Idaho's Banned Books: 12 Reads That Spark Controversy
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The Landscape of Book Bans in Idaho
Idaho has seen an uptick in book challenges, often driven by debates around explicit content, gender identity, and perceived political bias. School districts and libraries have found themselves at the center of heated conversations, as parents and community members spar over what constitutes appropriate reading material. PEN America reports that Idaho has removed several titles from shelves during the 2023-2024 school year, many of which explore complex, controversial themes.
Here’s a closer look at some of the banned books in Idaho and why they’re worth your attention.
The Handmaid's Tale: The Graphic Novel
“Nolite te bastardes carborundorum” (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down.””
Author: Margaret Atwood
Themes:
Oppression and resistance
Feminism and power
Theocratic dystopia
You’ll like this book if you like: The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Why you should read it: Atwood’s dystopian tale, now a graphic novel, is as visually gripping as it is thematically relevant. The adaptation breathes new life into this chilling narrative of resistance and autonomy.
The Truth As Told By Mason Buttle
Author: Leslie Connor
Themes:
Bullying and friendship
Grief and healing
Overcoming learning disabilities
You’ll like this book if you like: Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Why you should read it: Mason’s story reminds us that kindness and resilience can overcome even the darkest challenges. Its heartfelt message is perfect for readers of all ages.
A Stolen Life
“At times I feel like I’m still eleven years old. But something inside that frightened little girl made her a survivor and she has made me the person I am today.”
Author: Jaycee Dugard
Themes:
Survival and resilience
Trauma and recovery
The strength of the human spirit
You’ll like this book if you like: Room by Emma Donoghue
Why you should read it: Dugard’s memoir is a testament to human strength, recounting her survival after years of captivity. It's an inspiring reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
Collected Poems 1947-1980
Author: Allen Ginsberg
Themes:
Counterculture and rebellion
Love and longing
Spiritual exploration
You’ll like this book if you like: On the Road by Jack Kerouac
Why you should read it: Ginsberg’s raw, revolutionary poetry captures the Beat Generation’s spirit of defiance and creativity. A must-read for lovers of literature that challenges norms.
Water for Elephants
Author: Sara Gruen
Themes:
Love and loyalty
Found families
The underbelly of the circus world
You’ll like this book if you like: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Why you should read it: Gruen’s richly detailed novel offers an evocative look into the world of circus performers, balancing heartbreak with hope.
Milk and Honey
Author: Rupi Kaur
Themes:
Love and heartbreak
Feminism and empowerment
Healing and growth
You’ll like this book if you like: Pillow Thoughts by Courtney Peppernell
Why you should read it: With its raw honesty and empowering themes, this poetry collection is both an emotional release and a rallying cry for self-love.
The Sun and Her Flowers
Author: Rupi Kaur
Themes:
Grief and healing
Self-discovery
Love and identity
You’ll like this book if you like: Wild Embers by Nikita Gill
Why you should read it: A follow-up to Milk and Honey, this collection continues Kaur’s exploration of resilience, growth, and beauty in struggle.
You
Author: Caroline Kepnes
Themes:
Obsession and manipulation
Dark romance
Psychological thriller
You’ll like this book if you like: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Why you should read it: A chilling dive into the mind of an obsessive lover, this thriller will keep you hooked—and unsettled—from start to finish.
Empire of Storms
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Themes:
Magic and destiny
Love and sacrifice
Friendship and loyalty
You’ll like this book if you like: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Why you should read it: Maas’s intricate world-building and compelling characters make this a standout in the high-fantasy genre.
Kingdom of Ash
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Themes:
Power and perseverance
Found families
War and redemption
You’ll like this book if you like: The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Why you should read it: This epic finale to Maas’s Throne of Glass series is a masterclass in storytelling, blending action and emotion seamlessly.
Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
Author: Gregory Maguire
Themes:
Good vs. evil
Power and corruption
The untold story
You’ll like this book if you like: The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Why you should read it: Maguire’s reimagining of the Wicked Witch adds depth and nuance to a classic tale, challenging our notions of morality.
The Nowhere Girls
Author: Amy Reed
Themes:
Feminism and justice
Sexual assault
Solidarity and activism
You’ll like this book if you like: Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Why you should read it: This timely novel tackles the power of collective action in addressing societal injustices. It’s a must-read for the #MeToo generation.
Call to Action
Want to fight back against book bans? Here’s how you can take action:
Books open doors to new worlds and ideas—let’s work together to ensure they remain accessible to all.
