"2023's Top Challenged Books: Majority Feature LGBTQ Themes"

The American Library Association released a list of the 10 most challenged books of 2023, with seven of them featuring LGBTQ themes, sparking debates over what reading materials are appropriate for kids and teenagers. The moves to restrict or withdraw books have been driven by conservative activist groups and Republican elected officials, leading to a 65% spike in book challenges over the previous year. The association emphasized the importance of protecting the freedom to choose what to read and highlighted the harmful impact of pressure groups targeting books about LGBTQIA+ people and people of color.