In a world where words hold the power to teach others and shape young minds, books are being banned everywhere. In 2022, the “Sensitive Materials in School” Act was passed in Utah. According to a survey done by PEN America, the number of banned books in Utah skyrocketed from 12 to 281 following the approval of the act. The belief that students are allowed to and should read in school is being threatened by nonsensical ideals that students are not mature enough to handle topics such as violence, race, and sexuality. 13 titles were banned last year across all Utah schools, some of them being “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas, “Oryx and Crake” by Maragaret Atwood, and “Forever” by Judy Blume. Atwood is most famous for her award winning novel, “The Handmaid’s Tale,” which is about a dystopian society in which the majority of women are infertile. Her books are known for addressing issues about gender and equality, ideas that could potentially empower and influence growing students. 

Books were never created to cause harm or spread false information. They are necessary for the spread of ideas and to help the population create a sense of identity. Thousands of studies have been conducted over the years, proving the idea that books help teenagers grow their vocabulary, creativity and general understanding about the world around them. Books provide a safe space for anyone – young or old. The idea that books need to be banned for being too “scandalous” is purely due to differing opinions and morals. According to The Advocates for Inclusive Education, “Banning books is not the answer to challenging ideas,” and yet, we see year after year a gradual increase in the amount of books being challenged and banned. If this pattern continues, students’ rights will continue to be stripped away from them and the accessibility to books will decrease. By reaching out to the school librarian, or the OIF (Office for Intellectual Freedom), students can stay informed about book ban laws and keep reading.