George M. Johnson’s ‘All Boys Aren’t Blue’ Ranked Most Challenged Book in US Libraries for 2024

NEW YORK — The American Library Association (ALA) has released its “State of American Libraries” report, revealing new insights into the ongoing challenges faced by libraries across the country. The report highlights that over 70% of attempts to ban books stem from organized groups and elected officials, with only 16% originating from parents.

Among the most frequently targeted titles are Maia Kobabe’s “Gender Queer” and Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye.” Such books often appear on lists curated by organizations like Moms for Liberty, indicating a systematic push against specific themes. “Many challenges can be traced back to lists distributed by organized groups,” said Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom.

The report also identifies the ten most challenged books of 2024, including “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson and “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky. The presence of LGBTQ+ themes in these titles reflects a continuing trend in censorship debates, alongside controversies surrounding topics like drug addiction and historical injustices.

According to the ALA, a challenge involves formal, written complaints seeking the removal of materials due to perceived inappropriate content. While a falling number of reported challenges—821 in 2024 compared to 1,247 in 2023—suggests a decrease, this figure remains significantly higher than pre-2021 levels.

Amidst these dynamic circumstances, libraries face external pressures, notably from legislative actions in states like Texas and Florida, which restrict library acquisitions. Caldwell-Stone noted that many librarians are avoiding controversial books altogether to prevent potential legal repercussions. “I spoke to a librarian from Texas who was hesitating to add a political book to her collection due to fears of prosecution,” she stated.

The environment surrounding library collections continues to shift, raising concerns regarding access to diverse literature. The battle around censorship remains, indicating a landscape where libraries must navigate both community expectations and regulatory limitations.

The 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024:

• 1. “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” by George M. Johnson
• 2. “Gender Queer,” by Maia Kobabe
• 3. (Tie) “The Bluest Eye,” by Toni Morrison
• 3. (Tie) “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” by Stephen Chbosky
• 5. “Tricks,” by Ellen Hopkins
• 6. (Tie) “Looking for Alaska,” by John Green
• 6. (Tie) “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl,” by Jesse Andrews
• 8. (Tie) “Crank,” by Ellen Hopkins
• 8. (Tie) “Sold,” by Patricia McCormick
• 10. “Flamer,” by Mike Curato