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After reading an article with the author about banned books, I read Lawn Boy to see what all the fuss was about. Without giving much away, there's themes of sexual identity & sex, but the book is much more about poverty & how difficult it is to overcome than anything else. I see no reason for this book to be banned. The honest reflection of class in our society could make some uncomfortable, but as the saying goes, “The truth sometimes hurts“.

This has been on my radar a bit, and the audio was available on Libby at just the right time. As for the story…. It‘s pretty character driven, about Mike, a half Latino guy in his early 20s, trying to catch a break while also figuring things a#out about himself, his goals, and his sexuality. Overall, it was alright - the narrator eventually grew on me, but it‘s a shame it gets challenged in high schools for what it is.

One of the ALA‘s ten most banned books. I read it because it was challenged in my high school library by a community member. I thought it was an appealing book for teens with lots of humor. It also had a protagonist who was a little lost and searching for direction, which is something that kids need to see.

#Banned LGBTQIA+, claimed sexually explicit
Age: 9-12
Maybe it‘s the narrator, but I didn‘t feel it. Miquel is figuring out how he feels about dating. I think the age range doesn‘t work (better for teen). It is a good book for those immigrant families who face discrimination every day just for being Mexican, let alone testing gay. The book also talks about wanting the dream job, that one job, you want. How he always expects to owe a favor.

Not sure why this is a #BannedBook other that its exploration of a half-Latino young man coming out as gay. I‘d call this New Adult over YA.

Mike can seem to catch a break. He quits a job he loves (mowing lawns) because of an exploitative boss. But he struggles to find work after that, and he and his mom can barely make ends meet. Still, his story rings much more hopeful than sad. A great “be true to your dreams” novel.

Anaya‘s book had me thinking about faith and family and what does it mean to be a part of something bigger than yourself.

It was my love of Book Clubs (I REALLY struggle with not joining any and all that come my way) that brought me to this book. I could not resist A Banned Book-BookClub! Mike Munoz, a young Chicano, living on the Rez with his single Mom is trying to find himself, and to accept his sexuality. He cares for his mentally challenged brother while is Mom is at work. He is trying to find a job where he feels valued. And he excels at topiary! #pridemonth

I received an email to join a Banned Book Club,and this is how I delay reading my own books. Looking forward to the Zoom discussion about this book on Wednesday. It is the selection for Pride Month and the 7th most banned book in 2022.

What a strange tale of faith and discovery. Anaya paints beautiful pictures with his words and some of the interactions between his characters read as if I‘m watching children on a playground. Yet, I‘m not quite sure what readers find so appealing about this book. A strange path to goodness, indeed.