Essence Enterprises

As a writer and, especially a reader, I cannot fathom the thought of books being banned, burned or challenged. I am sure there are situations where banning may be appropriate, especially adult topics of a book not being in a school. I am a reader, an avid reader at that (probably more than avid, but I digress). I was inspired by the owner of "https://www.bannedbooksbox.com/" (I even sent her note about the good work she was doing, and what I was intending to do, and she replied!!!) So, the other day, I added to Amy's Library, a new list, called "Banned Books," and this will not affect any other reviews that I do, but I am going to start reading banned books. I've been doing some research on the subject, and decided to create this page, a list of banned, challenged, and burned books.

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I've gathered the information from different valid sites, and am compiling a list in no particular order. The banned books on my review list may differ from this, as I am purchasing the banned books myself, with my own money, however, any contribution for me to read a banned book, or for someone to send me a copy of a banned book, I'd be happy to accept.) There is a separate donation button near the banned books list in the library. Also, there is a form that allows anyone to recommend a banned book, if it's not on either list. If you have one you wish to donate or just share (kindle borrowing is just fine), let me know by sending me an email, stating "banned book" in the subject.

Also, I don't mind hearing other's opinions on banned books. These opinions or stories will be shared on this blog and my writer's blog, which is also going to promote banned books. If you are an author of a banned books, I'd like to hear from you, and if I don't, I may reach out). Whenever possible, I added the link to where the book can be bought on Amazon.com. Once thing I did notice that when I was searching for each book on Amazon, there were many books that also had a "study guide" to the book or a "teacher's guide."

Highlighted books have either been read, or are currently on my "Banned Book" Bookshelf 

I have also created "paper" flyers, so if anyone wants a copy to print out for local bulletin boards, let me know and I'll send you one. amysbookshelfreviews@gmail.com

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Update: March 2020: I am also adding "controversial" books to this list and one of my bookshelves, especially when one of the authors tells me about their experience with having books "removed" from shelves or other ways that is removing the book by trying to Censor the author.

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First Amendment of the

Constitution
 

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion,

 or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the

press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the

Government for a redress of grievances."
 

Judy Blume on Censorship

Actor/Book Lover LeVar Burton on book banning