And I Darken
Kiersten White
About this book
"And I Darken" by Kiersten White is a reimagining of the historical figure Vlad the Impaler, told through the lens of his fierce and unapologetically ambitious daughter, Lada. Set against the backdrop of the Ottoman Empire's expansion, the novel explores themes of power, gender, and the struggle for identity, as Lada challenges societal expectations and forges her path. Its significance lies in its bold portrayal of a strong female protagonist who defies traditional narratives, offering a fresh perspective on history and the complexities of ambition and loyalty.
Why it was banned
In 2024, "And I Darken" by Kiersten White was banned at the school level in the United States due to its LGBTQ+ content and violence. The banning authority cited these reasons as justification for the removal of the book from school libraries. There are no documented lawsuits or public statements from the author regarding this ban.
Censorship history
In 2024, "And I Darken" by Kiersten White faced a ban in several school districts across the United States, primarily due to its LGBTQ+ content and depictions of violence. Notably, the book was challenged during a school board meeting in a district in Texas, where local parents and advocacy groups voiced concerns over its appropriateness for students. The ban was upheld after a contentious vote, reflecting ongoing debates about educational content and the representation of diverse identities in literature.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2024 | LGBTQ+Violence |
