About this book
"Faceless" by Alyssa Sheinmel follows the story of a teenage girl, Maisie, who must navigate the emotional and physical aftermath of a tragic accident that leaves her face severely disfigured. As she confronts her changing identity and relationships, the novel explores themes of acceptance, resilience, and the superficial nature of societal beauty standards. Its significance lies in its poignant examination of the struggles associated with trauma and the journey toward self-acceptance and understanding.
Censorship history
In 2025, "Faceless" by Alyssa Sheinmel was banned at the school level in several districts across the United States, primarily due to concerns over its portrayal of trauma and disfigurement, which some parents and school officials deemed inappropriate for teenage readers. Specific instances of challenges included formal complaints from parent-teacher associations (PTAs) in states like Texas and Florida, leading to school board votes that resulted in the book's removal from library shelves. The bans were upheld despite appeals from educators advocating for the book's educational value in discussing issues of identity and acceptance.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2025 | Other |