The Read Freely Challenge: 5 Prompts for Banned Books Week

Every fall, Banned Books Week reminds us of the power-and sometimes the danger-of stories. Books have been challenged and banned for their themes, their characters, and even for daring to make people think differently. And while the idea of banning books makes my bookish heart ache, it also pushes me to celebrate the freedom to read by intentionally picking up the very stories others have tried to silence.

This year, I created a simple Read Freely Challenge with five prompts to guide your Banned Books Week reading. Each prompt in this reading challenge comes with a book suggestion to get you started, but you can also pick your own. Think of it as an invitation to read boldly, reflect deeply, and honor the voices that refuse to be quiet.

The 5 Prompts

Prompt 1: Read a Coming-of-Age Story

Book Pick: The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
Esperanza Cordero grows up in a Chicago neighborhood, capturing her experiences in poetic vignettes that balance hope, struggle, and self-discovery. I chose this book because it’s lyrical, powerful, and timeless, showing how identity and place shape us. It’s perfect for readers who like short but impactful stories, and it reminded me of the importance of claiming your own voice even in environments that try to shrink you.

Prompt 2: Read a Book That Challenges Authority

Book Pick: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
In a dystopian world where books are outlawed and “firemen” burn them, Guy Montag begins to question everything he has been taught. His journey from unquestioning worker to rebellious thinker is both thrilling and heartbreaking. I selected this because it speaks directly to the dangers of censorship and complacency. For readers who enjoy dystopian classics, it’s a must-and it left me fired up about protecting intellectual freedom.

Prompt 3: Read a Book That Centers on Race

Book Pick: The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Pecola Breedlove, a young Black girl, longs for blue eyes, believing they will make her beautiful and loved. Morrison’s novel unflinchingly explores beauty standards, systemic racism, and generational trauma. I picked this because Morrison’s storytelling is searing yet deeply human. For readers who appreciate literary fiction with emotional weight, it’s essential-and it left me reflecting on the damaging messages we inherit and pass on.

Prompt 4: Read a Book With LGBTQ+ Themes

Book Pick: Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe
This graphic memoir follows Kobabe’s journey of identity, self-expression, and the search for belonging as an asexual, nonbinary person. The visual storytelling makes complex experiences accessible and intimate. I chose it because it’s one of the most frequently challenged books in recent years, yet it opens doors of empathy and understanding. For readers who love memoirs and graphic novels, it’s illuminating-and it left me grateful for the courage behind sharing personal truths.

Prompt 5: Read a Book That Was Ahead of Its Time

Book Pick: Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Janie Crawford’s story is one of love, independence, and the search for her own voice in early 20th-century Florida. Hurston’s prose is lush and vibrant, and Janie’s journey of resilience still resonates today. I picked it because it’s a classic that was once dismissed and challenged but now stands as a cornerstone of American literature. For readers who enjoy character-driven stories and lyrical writing, this is unforgettable-and it left me awed by Janie’s determination to live life on her own terms.

Why Take the Banned Books Week Challenge?

Each of these prompts is meant to spark curiosity, challenge assumptions, and remind us that every story matters. When we read banned books, we’re not just enjoying great literature-we’re standing up for the freedom to think, question, and connect.

So grab a prompt (or all five!) and join me in the Read Freely Challenge this Banned Books Week. I’d love to hear what you’re reading-drop your picks in the comments or share them with me on social. Let’s celebrate our right to read, loudly and proudly.