About this book
"Counting Down with You" by Tashie Bhuiyan follows the story of a Bangladeshi American girl named Karina Ahmed as she navigates the complexities of love, identity, and cultural expectations during her senior year of high school. When she pretends to date the charming but troubled senior, Ace, their fake relationship evolves, leading her to confront her own dreams and the pressures of her family's expectations. The novel is significant for its authentic representation of a Muslim-American girl's struggles with romance and self-discovery, highlighting themes of identity, belonging, and emotional resilience.
Censorship history
In 2024, "Counting Down with You" by Tashie Bhuiyan faced bans at the school level in various districts across the United States due to its LGBTQ+ content. Specific instances included challenges raised during school board meetings in states like Texas and Florida, where parents and advocacy groups argued against the book's inclusion in school curricula. The bans were upheld in several districts, reflecting ongoing debates about representation and appropriateness in educational settings.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2024 | LGBTQ+ |