Why Banned Books Are Great Reads

In his introduction to Les Misérables (1862), Victor Hugo wrote: “…so long as ignorance and misery remain on earth, there should be a need for books such as this.” Les Misérables is an epic story of love, protest, and redemption. It addresses issues such as poverty and injustice through characters that are relatable and compelling. This is one of the reasons writers write and readers read…to tell a story, to share an experience, and to develop critical thinking. When books like this are banned, these opportunities are lost.