This Book Is Banned by Raj Haldar, Illustrated by Julia Patton


Raj Haldar’s This Book Is Banned, illustrated by Julia Patton, is a clever and engaging picture book that invites readers into a playful yet powerful conversation about censorship. Through humor and absurd scenarios, the book explores what happens when certain words, ideas, or images are “banned.” It’s a gentle but pointed reminder of the importance of access to stories and information, a topic that resonates deeply in today’s climate of increasing book challenges and restrictions.

Though designed for younger readers, this book provides an excellent entry point for middle and high school students to critically examine freedom of expression, intellectual freedom, and the consequences of limiting access to diverse voices.

Curriculum Connections

Social Studies / Civics   

  • Constitutional Rights: Connects directly to the First Amendment and discussions of free speech.

  • Democracy & Civic Responsibility: Encourages dialogue about why intellectual freedom matters in a democratic society.

  • Contemporary Issues: Opens space for students to explore current debates around book bans and challenges.

English Language Arts

  • Satire and Wordplay: Demonstrates how humor and creativity can highlight serious issues.

  • Critical Literacy: Prompts students to question who decides what is “appropriate” to read and why.

  • Discussion & Debate: Offers a springboard for persuasive writing or structured debates on book challenges.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

  • Voice & Agency: Reinforces the idea that students have a right to be heard and to access a wide range of stories.

  • Respect for Perspectives: Builds empathy by considering why diverse voices matter in literature.

  • Empowerment: Encourages students to recognize their role in defending freedom of ideas.

Connection to ALA’s Banned Books Week

Every fall, the American Library Association (ALA) sponsors Banned Books Week, a nationwide event that celebrates the freedom to read and spotlights current and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools.

Pairing This Book Is Banned with Banned Books Week activities can spark rich, age-appropriate conversations about:

  • Why books are challenged or removed from libraries.

  • How access to books reflects democracy and inclusivity.

  • The power of stories to connect, challenge, and transform.

Teachers and librarians can use this book as a fun, accessible entry point for middle and high school students before exploring actual titles that have been challenged, such as Maus by Art Spiegelman or Drama by Raina Telgemeier.

Discussion Questions

  1. Why do you think the author chose to use humor and silly scenarios to talk about banning books?

  2. How does the book show the difference between banning something silly and banning something important?

  3. What are the possible consequences when certain books or ideas are not available to readers?

  4. Why do you think some books are challenged or banned in schools and libraries?

  5. How do the illustrations add to the meaning of the story?

  6. What book or story has made a difference in your life and how would you feel if it were banned?

This Book Is Banned is more than a fun and playful read, it’s a powerful teaching tool. It encourages students to think about the value of stories, the dangers of censorship, and their rights as readers. For middle and high school classrooms, it provides a meaningful way to connect picture books to bigger conversations about democracy, civil liberties, and the role of literature in shaping our lives.

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