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A recent report from PEN America highlights a troubling trend in American education: the number of banned non-fiction books has surged, more than doubling in the 2024-2025 school year. This alarming increase, documented in a comprehensive analysis of 3,743 unique titles removed from libraries and classrooms, underscores a growing climate of censorship centred around themes of activism and social justice.
A Dramatic Increase in Censorship
According to PEN America, the latest figures reveal that over 1,100 non-fiction books were banned in the past academic year—a staggering rise that signifies a deepening concern over intellectual freedom in US education. This is more than double the number recorded the previous year, with non-fiction titles now constituting nearly 29% of all banned literature.
The report paints a clear picture of the types of books being targeted. Among the non-fiction titles facing censorship are *Challenges for LGBTQ+ Teens* by Martha Lundin, *Aztec, Inca, and Maya* by Elizabeth Baquedano, and Elie Wiesel’s poignant memoir, *Night*. These books not only educate students about their rights but also highlight the struggles of those who have fought against injustice.
The Themes Under Attack
The most frequently banned non-fiction books revolve around social movements and activism. McKenna Samson, a co-author of the report, emphasised the importance of these texts, noting that they provide crucial insights into historical struggles for equity and justice. “These titles help students learn about their rights and the stories of those who confronted injustice,” Samson stated.
In addition to activism, there has been a marked increase in the banning of books related to sex education. Titles such as *You Know, Sex: Bodies, Gender, Puberty and Other Things* by Cory Silverberg have also come under fire, reflecting a broader societal discomfort with discussions around sexual health and education.
The Impact on Marginalised Voices
The report highlights a concerning trend regarding the representation of marginalised groups in the books being censored. A striking 39% of banned titles feature LGBTQ+ characters, while 44% represent people of colour. This suggests that the ongoing wave of censorship disproportionately targets stories that reflect diverse experiences and perspectives, an issue that is particularly troubling in a society striving for inclusivity.
Books addressing themes of death and grief account for a significant portion of those banned, making up 48% of the titles. Meanwhile, works focusing on empowerment and self-esteem comprise 39%. The implications of these bans extend beyond the confines of school libraries; they signal a broader societal attempt to suppress narratives that challenge the status quo.
A Growing Concern for Educational Standards
The ramifications of this trend are underscored by a recent report from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which revealed that a third of 12th graders tested did not possess basic reading skills—the lowest scores in three decades. This disheartening statistic coincides with findings from the American Library Association, which noted a record high in book bans across US libraries in 2025, with 40% of challenged titles featuring LGBTQ+ individuals or people of colour.
The persistent rise in censorship raises critical questions about the future of education in the US. As Kasey Meehan, director of PEN America’s freedom to read programme, pointed out, “This latest trend shows an embrace of anti-intellectualism, undermining public knowledge by devaluing education and expertise.” Such patterns of censorship not only diminish the quality of education but also erode trust in the public education system.
Why it Matters
The escalating number of book bans in the United States poses a significant threat to the fabric of educational integrity and the nurturing of informed citizens. By targeting non-fiction works that promote discussion around activism, social justice, and the complexities of human experience, we risk stifling crucial conversations that shape young minds. As society grapples with pressing issues of equity and representation, the protection of literary freedom becomes not just an educational imperative, but a societal one, essential for fostering a well-rounded and informed populace.