BANNED

Yes, A Pho Love Story Is Banned!

by Loan Le · Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers · 2021

ISBN: 9781534441590

3 documented challenges

A Pho Love Story is a Romeo and Juliet-inspired YA romance set in the Vietnamese American community. Bao Nguyen and Linh Mai are the children of families who own rival pho restaurants and have feuded for decades. When they meet and fall for each other, they have to navigate family loyalty, cultural expectations, and the secret of their relationship.

The novel has been challenged for sexual content and profanity. A lighthearted romance celebrated for its Vietnamese American representation, it has been pulled from school library shelves in Texas and Florida.

Why Was It Banned?

Where Was It Banned?

Texas Keller ISD 2022
Florida Clay County School District 2023

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Pho Love Story banned?

Yes, A Pho Love Story by Loan Le has been banned or challenged in 3 documented instances across 2 states in the United States, including Texas, Florida. It remains one of the most frequently challenged books in America.

Why was A Pho Love Story banned?

A Pho Love Story has been challenged and banned for the following reasons: Sexual Content, Profanity. These challenges have come from school boards, libraries, and parent groups seeking to restrict access to the book.

Where is A Pho Love Story banned?

As of 2025, A Pho Love Story has been banned or challenged in Texas, Florida. Notable bans include Keller ISD (2022), Clay County School District (2023).