Banned Books Week : The Stories They Don’t Want You to Read

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Pouring Over Books podcast, LaShawn dives into the topic of banned books during Banned Books Week. She discusses the alarming rise in book censorship across the United States, emphasizing the importance of fighting against these bans. LaShawn provides actionable steps for listeners to support local libraries, stay informed about book challenges, and advocate for literary freedom. She also shares a list of recommended banned books that are essential reads, highlighting their themes and the reasons for their censorship. The episode concludes with LaShawn's current reading journey and a call to action for listeners to engage in the fight for the freedom to read.PEN AmericaThe American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual FreedomBooks Mentioned in this EpisodeI know why the caged bird Sings by Maya AngelouMonday’s Not Coming By Tiffany D JacksonAll American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brenden keileyOut of Darkness by Ashley Hope PerezALL BOYS AREN’T BLUE BY GEORGE M JOHNSONTHE BLUEST EYE BY TONI MORRISONAlchemised SenLinYuGood spirits by B.K.Borrison Mate By Ali HazelwoodSupport the showJoin the Pouring Over Books Bookclub. We are reading Toni Morrison in 2026. Follow  LaShawn on IG @lashawnwiltz and Threads @lashawnwiltzSubstack: Letters From LaShawn