One notable graphic novel during Banned Books Week could be 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman. It's a powerful and poignant work that uses animals to represent different groups during the Holocaust. It has faced banning attempts due to its complex and sometimes disturbing themes. Another is 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi, which tells a personal story set against the backdrop of the Iranian Revolution. It has also been challenged because of its political and cultural content. 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel is yet another; it deals with themes like family secrets, homosexuality, and coming - of - age, and has been controversial in some areas.
During Banned Books Week, 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore is quite significant. Its complex narrative and subversive take on superheroes have made it a target for some who find its content too dark or challenging. It questions the idea of heroism and has some mature themes. Also, 'V for Vendetta' by the same author has been in the spotlight. It has strong political overtones and a revolutionary theme that has led to it being challenged in certain places.
Graphic novels are often targeted during Banned Books Week because they can visually represent controversial topics. For instance, they might show violence, sexual content, or political ideas in a more direct way compared to traditional text - only books. Some people may find the visual aspect more disturbing or influential, especially when it comes to younger readers.
One well - known banned short story is 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. It was banned because some people thought its violent ending was disturbing and its themes of blind conformity were too dark for some audiences.
The 'Bone' series by Jeff Smith has also faced some banning attempts. Some religious groups objected to certain elements in the story that they felt had occult or pagan undertones. However, many people consider it a great work of graphic literature that is rich in story, character, and art.
Another factor could be political or religious views. A graphic novel that presents a view different from the mainstream or dominant ideology in a particular area might face a ban. For instance, if it portrays a certain religious group in a way that some find offensive or if it challenges the political status quo in a way that is not acceptable to local authorities. This is especially relevant in places where there is strict control over what young people can be exposed to.
Some people might consider 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel as a drama graphic novel that has faced bans as a YA book. It deals with themes such as family secrets, homosexuality, and coming to terms with one's identity. The combination of these rather mature themes presented in a graphic novel format led to it being challenged in various educational and library settings as a book suitable for young adults.
Some of the 2017 young adult graphic novels include 'I Am Alfonso Jones'. It tells a thought - provoking story about a young boy who is killed by a police officer and his journey after death. 'The Prince and the Dressmaker' is also notable. It has a beautiful story about acceptance and self - discovery as it follows a prince who loves to wear dresses and his relationship with his dressmaker. Then there's 'Speak: The Graphic Novel' which is an adaptation of the well - known novel and effectively conveys the important message about sexual assault and finding one's voice.
Some graphic novels are banned because they can be misinterpreted. For instance, a story that has a complex and nuanced view on a historical event or a social issue might be seen as promoting a wrong idea when in fact it's just exploring different perspectives. Additionally, in some educational settings, if a graphic novel doesn't align with the curriculum or the educational goals, it could be banned. There are also cases where pressure from certain groups, like religious or conservative groups, can lead to the banning of a graphic novel if they find its content goes against their beliefs.
One example is 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman. It has faced challenges due to its use of animals to represent different ethnic groups during the Holocaust, which some found disturbing or inappropriate in the context of a graphic novel. Another is 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi. It has been challenged in some places because it deals with political and social issues in Iran in a way that some might consider controversial, such as the representation of the Islamic revolution and the role of women in Iranian society.
One reason could be that they contain offensive language. Some comics might use vulgar words which are not suitable for all audiences, especially children. Another reason could be excessive violence. Graphic and gory scenes in a comic or graphic novel can be disturbing and not appropriate for young minds. Also, certain themes like promoting drug use or anti - social behavior can lead to a ban.
One of the top 10 banned graphic novels could be 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore. Its complex themes and dark, violent content have made it a target in some conservative areas. The story, which deconstructs the superhero concept, contains elements that some may find inappropriate for younger audiences. 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel is also on the list in some areas. It deals with themes of homosexuality and family secrets, which has led to it being banned in certain schools and libraries.