The newest controversy circling social media in our country is; what type of books should our future generations be reading? Schools around the country have begun to ban classic literature stories due to a range of complaints stemming from promoting witchcraft in the Harry Potter series, to heavier topics such as the Holocaust in Maus. Protesters are rising behind the reason that our children need to be exposed and learn from these real life events, in order to properly mature. Here are the top ten books being banned today in the United States public school system.

Maus I: A Survivor’s Tale by Vladek Spigelman

A comic book series written from the author’s father’s perspective of surviving the Holocaust and concentration camps during World War II. The book has been banned due to parents’ outrage claiming the story is too gruesome and hard for children to read.

1984 by George Orwell

One of the most influential classic literature pieces of the twentieth century, 1984 conveys the paralleling forces of Russian and German communism in the facade of a young man living in a tyrannical dystopian future. The book has been banned in Florida counties due to “pro-communist” behavior and sexual content.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

Another piece of famous classic literature, the book depicts the story of two migrant workers who travel the west coast in hope of starting a new life on a dream farm. The story goes into depth on the morals of friendship and ambition as well as showcasing the harsh reality of life.

The Captain Underpants Series by Dave Pilkey

An iconic children’s comic book series showcasing two creative best friend pranksters, is being banned in states across the country due to its insensitivity, offensive behavior and language, LGBTQIA+ themes, and anti-authority messages.

The underlying messages of these novels that depict real life events and themes, give the most thought provoking question, “Are we educating our children or traumatizing?”