The last few years have seen a massive increase in the number of library books challenged by the public for removal, usually based on sexual or LGBTQ+ content. Keep in mind that books geared towards young adult readers (ages 12-18) often contain more mature material precisely because that is the age where we start grappling with issues like sex, sexuality, gender identity, violence, and just generally finding our way towards our adult selves. Many of these titles have been around for years, and more than a few have won prestigious literary prizes . Just because they're written for a younger audience doesn't mean we Old Adults wouldn't enjoy them, too. So buy some of these books for the teen in your life…or just for yourself!
