Yes, Rural Voices Is Banned!
ISBN: 9781536213003
Rural Voices is an anthology of fifteen stories, personal essays, poems, and comics by acclaimed YA authors, all set in rural America. The collection pushes back against the stereotype that rural equals white and conservative, featuring characters who are LGBTQ+, BIPOC, immigrant, disabled, and everything else small-town America actually is. Contributors include David Bowles, Jasmine Warga, Randy Ribay, and others.
The anthology has been challenged for LGBTQ+ content, sexual content, and racial themes. The irony of banning a book that was specifically created to ensure rural teens see themselves reflected in literature has not been lost on its supporters.
Why Was It Banned?
Where Was It Banned?
Read It Anyway
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rural Voices banned?
Yes, Rural Voices by Nora Shalaway Carpenter has been banned or challenged in 4 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 Rural Voices banned?
Rural Voices has been challenged and banned for the following reasons: LGBTQ+ Content, Sexual Content, Racial Themes. These challenges have come from school boards, libraries, and parent groups seeking to restrict access to the book.
Where is Rural Voices banned?
As of 2025, Rural Voices has been banned or challenged in Texas, Florida. Notable bans include Keller ISD (2022), Clay County School District (2023).