Representing the Rainbow in Young Adult Literature: LGBTQ+ Content Since 1969
Christine A. Jenkins · 2024
Banned in 1 country
About this book
Discussions of gender and sexuality have become part of mainstream conversations and are being reflected in the work of more and more writers of fiction, particularly in literature aimed at young adult audiences. But young readers, regardless of their sexual orientation, don’t always know what books offer well-rounded portrayals of queer characters and situations. Fortunately, finding positive role models in fiction that features LGBTQ+ themes has become less problematic, though not without its challenges. In Representing the Rainbow in Young Adult Literature: LGBTQ+ Content since 1969, Christine Jenkins and Michael Cart provide an overview of the literary landscape. An expanded version of The Heart Has Its Reasons, this volume charts the evolution of YA literature that features characters and themes which resonate not only with LGBTQ+ readers but with their allies as well. In this resource, Jenkins and Cart identify titles that are notable either for their excellence—accurate, thoughtful, and tactful depictions—or deficiencies—books that are wrongheaded, stereotypical, or outdated. Each chapter has been significantly updated, and this edition also includes new chapters on bisexual, transgender, and intersex issues and characters, as well as chapters on comics, graphic novels, and works of nonfiction.
Censorship history
In 2024, "Representing the Rainbow in Young Adult Literature: LGBTQ+ Content Since 1969" by Christine A. Jenkins faced bans at the school level in various districts across the United States, primarily due to objections from parents and community members regarding its LGBTQ+ themes. These challenges often arose during school board meetings where concerned parents voiced their opposition, leading to formal complaints that prompted reviews of the book's appropriateness for school libraries. While specific instances of bans varied by district, the overarching trend reflected a growing resistance to LGBTQ+ content in educational settings, particularly in conservative areas.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2024 | LGBTQ+Moral |
