It’s no secret that John Green has written some of the most beloved YA novels of our time. But with that love has come controversy, as several of his books have faced challenges and bans over the years. As part of Banned Books Week, let’s dive into why Green’s works have sparked debate—and why they’re so important for teens today.
Looking for Alaska
Green’s debut novel Looking for Alaska has frequently been challenged for its portrayal of teenage rebellion, sexual content, and discussions of mental health and grief. Some schools and libraries have removed it from their shelves due to concerns over a certain scene involving intimacy. What makes Looking for Alaska so powerful is its raw and honest exploration of grief, identity, and the complexity of relationships. Green doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles teens face, and that’s why this book resonates so deeply with readers.
During Banned Books Week, I always make sure Looking for Alaska is front and center on my shelf—it’s a reminder that teens deserve stories that reflect the messy, emotional realities of life. While the book may be challenged for its content, its message of understanding and resilience is one that every teen should have the chance to read.
The Fault in Our Stars
The Fault in Our Stars may have skyrocketed to mainstream success, but it hasn’t escaped controversy. The novel has been banned and challenged in schools due to its themes of terminal illness, death, and teenage romance. In particular, its depiction of intimacy between Hazel and Augustus has raised concerns about it being "too mature" for younger readers.
But let’s be honest—The Fault in Our Stars is about so much more than that. It’s about love, loss, and finding meaning in the face of impossible circumstances. Green’s portrayal of these themes is what makes the book so universally relatable. Sure, it tackles tough topics, but isn’t that the point? Books like this allow teens to grapple with real-life challenges through the safety of fiction, which is why it remains an essential part of any YA collection.
Turtles All the Way Down
While Turtles All the Way Down hasn’t faced as many challenges as Green’s earlier works, it’s still a novel that pushes boundaries. The story follows Aza Holmes, a teenager grappling with severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Green himself has said that this is his most personal book, as it draws from his own experiences with mental illness. Although not banned to the extent of Looking for Alaska or The Fault in Our Stars, Turtles All the Way Down has sparked discussions about mental health in YA literature.
What makes this book so important is that it destigmatizes mental health issues, offering readers an honest look at what it’s like to live with anxiety and OCD. In a world where mental health is still often misunderstood, Green’s work here opens the door for empathy and deeper conversations.
Why John Green’s Books Matter
YA author, John Green’s books have faced censorship, but let’s not forget what makes them so impactful. They take on the tough, uncomfortable topics that many young readers are dealing with in real life—grief, love, mental illness, and self-discovery. While some may argue that these books are too mature, I would argue that they’re exactly what teens need. Banning these books denies young readers the chance to see themselves and their struggles reflected on the page.
As we celebrate Banned Books Week, let’s take a moment to appreciate authors like John Green, who aren’t afraid to tackle the big stuff. His books remind us that it’s okay to be messy, it’s okay to feel lost, and it’s okay to question everything. That’s what makes his stories so essential—and why they belong on every shelf.
If you’re looking for a book that’s been challenged (and for good reason!), pick up one of John Green’s YA novels. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
