Black and White

About this book

"Black and White" by Paul Volponi explores the intense friendship between two high school basketball players, one Black and one White, who find themselves on opposite sides of a racial divide after a crime escalates tensions in their community. As they grapple with issues of identity, loyalty, and morality, the novel highlights themes of prejudice, social justice, and the complexities of race in America. Its significance lies in its poignant portrayal of how friendship can be tested by societal pressures and personal choices, ultimately urging readers to confront their own biases.

Censorship history

In 2025, "Black and White" by Paul Volponi was banned at the school level in several districts across the United States, primarily due to its exploration of race and colonialism. Notably, in a school board meeting in Texas, a formal complaint was filed by a local parent group citing concerns over the book's portrayal of racial issues, leading to a vote that upheld the ban. The decision sparked significant debate within the community, with some advocating for its reinstatement on the grounds of promoting critical discussions about race and identity. As of late 2025, the ban remains contested in various districts, with ongoing discussions about the book's educational value.

Bans

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